What is End-user Tracking?

End-User tracking is a way of retrieving information from the Asynchronous Network Interface (ANI) Server to determine your location on the network and other user information pertaining to hardware and software you are using (Cisco, 2014). End-user tracking and recording technologies can reduce cybersecurity risks for less knowledgeable and inexperienced users because they can identify duplicate IP and duplicate MAC or incorrect port assignments. This could allow the network to save a user from a spoofing attack while using the internet, ATM, or even a point-of-sale system.

It can also cause a risk because now ever computer or phone knows your location and can be hacked to reveal it to unauthorized people. I have had many customers tell me they were followed by a stalker because of location tracking through iPhone or android devices.

Recently computer companies decided it was a worthwhile investment to help users stay safe instead of selling them fixes after they were in trouble. Microsoft has information posted about what a phishing email looks like. They suggest avoiding clicking links and falling prey to threats (Microsoft, 2014). Usually after a user clicks the link a piece of malware is downloaded which makes an entry in your registry. This allows the software to run and install. Then the malware works seamlessly behind the scene to obtain identity or financial data and send it back to the hacker. The reason less experienced users are targeted is because the website spoof a real company but many users may be too cautious to click the links.

References

Cisco. (2014). User Guide for Campus Management. Retrieved from Cisco: http://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/net_mgmt/ciscoworks_campus_manager/4-0/user/guide/u_guide/ut.html#wp1035023

Microsoft. (2014). How to recognize phishing email messages, links, or phone calls. Retrieved from Safety & Security Center: http://www.microsoft.com/security/online-privacy/phishing-symptoms.aspx