Just a brief glance at today’s headlines is enough to show anyone that computer security is more important than ever. Whether it’s a major department store’s credit card database getting hacked, or nude pictures of celebrities finding their way to the public, security is a hot-button topic, and it appears that you just can’t be too secure these days.

Which brings us to you. Sure, you’re not Target, nor are you a popular actress, yet you (and your business if you have one), are just as vulnerable to security breaches. You can’t throw much money at the problem, so you have to go the do-it-yourself approach. That’s fine, but it means you’re going to have to become an expert on computer security, and fast!

Now you too can have oneness with the universe AND a kickass firewall!

That’s where our friend “reading” comes in. Here’s a list of five books that will help you become a computer security rock star. Come to think of it, there’s probably books out there that can help you become a rock star, but first thing’s first.

Computer Security Fundamentals

A good place to start with computer security is at the beginning. You need to get a good introduction to the subject, and this is of those books fits the bill nicely. It covers topics like firewall selection, risk assessment, threat identification, virus attacks, and a lot more.

Big Data For Dummies

You just knew there’s be one those Dummies books for this topic, didn’t you? Of course you did! The difference with this particular volume is that security isn’t actually the main gist of the book. But since Big Data (and cloud computing) are becoming big things, it’s absolutely essential to learn how to address security concerns, and this book devotes to security concerns, making it a must.

Hacking Exposed 7: Network Security Secrets and Solutions

Here’s a classic case of Know Your Enemy. Recommended by the former Executive Assistant Director of the FBI, this book contains case studies of hacker exploits, giving you a sharp view of how these people work. It’s one of those books that shows you how to neutralize malicious code, detect malware, worms, and Trojans, and shore up vulnerable points in social networking and VoIP systems.

Googling Security: How Much Does Google Know About You?

As the weather gets colder, there’s nothing like hunkering down with a warm drink and reading a scary book, right? This one fits the bill perfectly. Google knows all about you, and what you do. It has information about you; reams of information. Google maps, Gmail, AdSense, all of these features are awesome, sure, but the things that people can find out about you through them are scary indeed. Books like this not only makes you aware of just how much of your life is in Google’s clutches, but also how you can protect yourself. If you use Google, you need this book.

Secrets & Lies- Digital Security in a Networked World

We wrap up with this intriguing title. This book’s a reality check in terms of network security, vulnerabilities, breaches, and other digital train wrecks. If you want to learn about the capabilities and limitations of various security technologies, then this is where you want to be. You not only get that desperately needed security wakeup call, you also get some good advice on what you can do about it.

Computer Security Books For Everyone

These are but five books in a very crowded field, but it’s a thorough, inclusive cross-section. Making yourself an expert in computer security is but one way of finding the best security solution for your company, but it’s a hell of a good start.

What computer security books would you recommend?