No sex, no viruses!

Latest research suggests blocking access to porn and drug-related sites can reduce chances of encountering spyware by almost half

It bugs us when they say don't keep bad company; but the warning holds as much significance even when it comes to virtual life. A recent research by Internet security firm Websense establishes that opening porn, gambling, drugs, militancy-related or any other portal that's considered 'bad' in nature may increase chances of being exposed to phishing, spyware and malicious keyloggers (password tappers). We tell you how bad leads to worse.

Sex is a safety gamble

If you are surfing websites in adult categories, you will eventually land on a dangerous virus, mostly in the form of an attractive pop-up prompt. The Websense report says, "Sex is the number one category that leads to sites that present a security risk."

Freeware, a death trap

Not everything that comes free is good. You may be able to download songs, pictures, wallpapers, and tones for free, but you may not know that you're being made to click on links that would enable hackers to enter safeguarded machines and networks. You might also be tricked into something illegal, so don't shut that browser warning without a thought.

Abused drugs abuse

Chances are, people keen on abused drugs will also get hooked to alcohol, tobacco and violence easily, or so show related links. Clicking on a drug portal will most likely also lead you to adult content and voyeuristic videos, only to open Pandora's Box.

Fanatics' fall

Links to militancy and extremist sites are another unsafe bet, because they gradually trap users into racism, hatred and even weapons. By satisfying or supporting their fanatic ideology, surfers could be trapped into illegal, questionable acts. Beware, and happy surfing!