This article covers the subject of library security and in particular the imminent threat of library computers being under attack from a variety of computer viruses. Zimerman brings to the reader’s attention that as society has advanced in computer technology, so too has the criminal world that are continually creating new and intelligent viruses in order to obtain precious information from both individuals and companies. This information is used to commit crime such as fraud and theft. Not only are these viruses, known as malware, used to obtain personal and confidential information, they are also designed to severely damage your computer and its software. In some cases the damage is irreversible. Zimerman points out users are not safe by simply having installed anti-virus software and in fact this can give a false sense of security to a computer user leading them to believe their computers are fully protected (Zimerman, 2010, p. 203). Zimerman goes on to say that while anti-malware products can detect some threats it may not be able to remove them or sometimes it may not even detect them at all. Zimerman warns not to ever underestimate the capabilities of this legion of criminals (Zimerman, 2010, p. 204).
Zimerman suggests there is a number of corporate level software that may be used to protect the library’s computers however, as the cost is usually charged per computer it can be prohibitive. A product used at Long Island University Brooklyn Campus library demonstrates a good example of virus detection. The product , Faronics Deep Freeze, takes a virtual snapshop of the environment; each time the computer is rebooted the computer is reset back to its default condition discarding any malware that may of emerged. In addition, the University also uses anti-virus software to ensure it is adequetly covered against viruses (Zimerman, 2010, p. 205).
Zimerman identifies a number of viruses. Trojan horses, he suggests as being the most dangerous, a virus that appears to be scanning and identifying malware on your computer while in actual fact it is entwining itself among other services running on your computer having a crippling effect, particularly if it is able to block access to Task Manager and Control Panel. Other forms of malware identified but not familiar to most people is botnet. Similar to other viruses in that it entwines itself in your computer, it is capable of generating spam all over the world. Most people are unaware that they are infected unless they notice their computer churning away at a time when it is not in use or the internet service provider shuts down your account for exceeding bandwidth (Zimerman, 2010, p. 207-208).
As Zimerman has titled his article ‘Protect your library’s computers’, it would be useful if he had covered recommended steps to take in securing public computers. Such tips could include setting restrictions to the Windows XP registry to stop users from changing settings or using WINSelect software that can be installed to limit the functions of applications on a public computer (Burke, 2009, p. 208).
Zimerman’s account of today’s computer viruses can be seen as a wake up call to all computer users. Whether individual users or organisations such as libraries, the constant threat of criminal computer activity must be on the forefront of everyones mind and they must be willing to put into practice procedures and software to prevent virus contamination. These procedures are only effective if they are regularly reviewed and updated to keep a step ahead of the criminal computer world.
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