Many users prefer to install open source applications on their computers. On paper this gives more control and knowledge about what we are really installing. Anyone can access the code of that software and see if there is any danger. It is very present in all types of operating systems and platforms. Especially the use of free software on servers has increased. Now, can open source compromise our privacy? We will talk about it in this article.
Open source programs are very common
As we know there is the possibility of installing a proprietary code program, which can be both paid and free applications, as well as open source software. The latter is present in many devices and operating systems. They are programs that can be freely modified and anyone can access their code, as it is made public.
This makes many users opt for this type of software. One way also to try to improve security and privacy . We are adding software that can be analyzed by anyone and rule out that there is a security risk.
The problem is that many open source tools can affect our security and privacy. We are not talking about being specifically designed for it, but that it could turn against us. We will explain why open source can affect our security and privacy. We will also give advice to prevent this from happening and affecting us.
Why open source can be a problem
When we talk about open source we can mention many tools. There are many programs that may be present as free software. This means that not all of them are safe and that problems sometimes arise. These failures could put our security and privacy at risk.
Project abandonment
Free software can be associated with different projects. Not all of them are maintained over time, as they can sometimes stop being used. It is usually maintained by a community that is dedicated to launching updates and patches, as well as maintaining the security of the project.
However, sometimes this project is abandoned. We can continue to use the open source program but we do not receive updates. This causes vulnerabilities that may be exploited by hackers to put our security and privacy at risk.
The vulnerabilities are public
You also have to keep in mind that vulnerabilities in this type of software are usually made public quickly. If we do not take the appropriate measures, if a program we use has not been patched correctly, our data may be in danger.
The fact that these vulnerabilities are public and can quickly invite hackers to take advantage. This logically puts our security and privacy at risk and causes us to take measures to prevent.
Difficulty maintaining supplements
Sometimes we can make use of open source programs that in turn use different add-ons that are also free software. The problem comes when any of these add-ons cease to exist or do not receive updates.
It is another fact that could jeopardize our security or privacy if we decide to use open source programs. It is not something that should be present in all cases, much less, but when we use less used tools.
Tips to reduce security risks
In our hand is taking some measures to prevent or reduce the risks that jeopardize our security or privacy when using free software. Let’s mention some of the most important.
Keep the software updated
Of course an important point is to keep the software updated . We have already mentioned that sometimes vulnerabilities arise that are corrected by patches and updates. It is true that they are not always present, but in the majority.
Our advice is to always have the latest versions of the software we use. This way we will avoid those problems that can be exploited by hackers to carry out their attacks.
Be aware of vulnerabilities
We must also be aware of the vulnerabilities . Sometimes it may arise that an add-on we use has a security flaw and it is necessary to uninstall it. It is important that we keep this in mind.
Have security tools
Finally, we do not want to forget the importance of using security tools . A good antivirus can detect the entry of malware and prevent a possible program that is safe on paper from becoming a real threat.
