[Ham-Computers] Linux Security - a Question

[Jim Hill]

I checked the Ubuntu site, and learned the following:
Antivirus and antispyware programs are not needed.

Use a good logon password.

Be careful with root (I'll resolve the problem by not using it).

An additional software firewall is not needed.  They say:
By default, Ubuntu includes a firewall, iptables, but by default 
nothing is engaged. This is reasonable as a default Ubuntu install 
opens zero ports to the outside world, so a firewall is redundant.

Nothing is said about a hardware firewall, but I'm using a router so 
should be ok there.

Browsers are the main problem.  It appears that Ubuntu uses Firefox.
They say:
    * Deny all cookies and add trusted sites, allowing only for session.
    * Install 
<https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/722>NoScript. Again 
block all and add trusted sites to a white list.
    * Install 
<https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/1502>Safe History
I assume NoScript and Safe History will take care of this problem, 
except I'm not so sure about avoiding cookies.

Jim




At 11:12 AM 9/6/2009, you wrote:
>There are times I need to process personal information on the
>internet such as checking a credit card account, and need a secure
>setup.  I understand Linux is much more secure than Windows, and I'm
>setting up an older computer to use only Ubuntu Linux.  I've
>downloaded the current version (9.04, Jaunty Jakalope), burned it to
>a CD-R, and will install it tonight.
>
>What do I need to do - install an antivirus program, an antispyware
>program, make changes to the browser used with Ubuntu, or ???
>
>I've tinkered with Linux in the past, but am still a novice.
>
>Jim
>
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