April 30, 2020 Show
We download all the time. Whether it’s a new album from our favourite band, an application to help our browser run a little smoother, or a new computer game we’re hoping to try out, downloading is a part of our daily lives. The problem is that, if we’re not careful about what we download, we leave ourselves vulnerable to attacks from cyber criminals. Malware is a common method that cyber criminals use to infect systems and devices and steal information from victims. A cyber criminal tries to trick you into opening an attachment, clicking a link, or downloading software that looks legitimate but that is a malicious.Here’s how you can protect yourself. What is malwareMalware – short for malicious software – is software that infects your computer so that cyber criminals can infiltrate or damage your system or device. A cyber criminal may use malware to steal information or carry out malicious activities. Cyber criminals are experts at making malware look like a legitimate file or software program, such as anti-virus software. Malware can interfere with your ability to use your computer or device as intended. For example, some malware redirects you to a third‑party site when you attempt to use the search function in your Internet browser. The most common ways you can get malwareDownloading programs is the most common way to infect your device with malware. For example, you may download a software application that looks legitimate but that is actually malware designed to hack your computer. But direct downloads while browsing websites aren’t the only way you can get malware. You might infect your computer or device by opening or downloading attachments or clicking on links in emails or text messages. How to protect yourselfInstall and use anti-malware softwareOne of the best ways to protect yourself from malware is to download anti-malware software. Anti-malware software provides an extra layer of security when you download something. You can be set up the software to run automatically so that files are scanned as they are downloaded. You can also set up your anti-malware software to perform scheduled scans of your computer. Beware of downloadsWhere does malware come from? Downloads. That’s why it’s so important to be careful when downloading something from the internet. Stopping malicious software at the source keeps you – and your computer – safe. Choose official app stores to download apps, updates and modifications, and use caution when opening attachments or clicking on links in suspicious emails. Spot the signs of malware being on your computerThe best way to protect yourself from malware is to stop it from ever ending up on your computer or device in the first place. But the reality is that your device may be infected. Spotting the signs of malware is the next step in protecting yourself. The signs aren’t always obvious. Some malware can run secretly in the background. In other cases, though, there are telltale signs such as programs crashing without warning, your computer freezing, and general poor performance. If you think your device has been infected with malware, disconnect it from your Wi-Fi network. Scan your device with anti-malware software to confirm whether malware is present. If the device is owned by your employer, you should contact your IT department as soon as possible. If your personal device has been infected with malware, contact a reputable IT service provider. ConclusionMalware is one of the most common methods of cyber attacks. But there are steps you can take to make yourself less vulnerable. By doing what you can to educate yourself, you’re less likely to become a victim of cyber crimes. Security Tip (ST18-004)Original release date: September 28, 2018 | Last revised: April 11, 2019 Protect yourself from unwanted, and potentially harmful, files or programs by following cybersecurity best practices. Malicious code is unwanted files or programs that can cause harm to a computer or
compromise data stored on a computer. Various classifications of malicious code include viruses, worms, and Trojan horses.
How can you protect yourself against malicious code?Following these security practices can help you reduce the risks associated with malicious code:
What do you need to know about antivirus software?Antivirus software scans computer files and memory for patterns that indicate the possible presence of malicious code. You can perform antivirus scans automatically or manually.
Although anti-virus software can be a powerful tool in helping protect your computer, it can sometimes induce problems by interfering with the performance of your computer. Too much antivirus software can affect your computer’s performance and the software’s effectiveness.
There are many antivirus software program vendors, and deciding which one to choose can be confusing. Antivirus software programs all typically perform the same type of functions, so your decision may be based on recommendations, features, availability, or price. Regardless of which package you choose, installing any antivirus software will increase your level of protection. How do you recover if you become a victim of malicious code?Using antivirus software is the best way to defend your computer against malicious code. If you think your computer is infected, run your antivirus software program. Ideally, your antivirus program will identify any malicious code on your computer and quarantine them so they no longer affect your system. You should also consider these additional steps:
Threats to your computer will continue to evolve. Although you cannot eliminate every hazard, by using caution, installing and using antivirus software, and following other simple security practices, you can significantly reduce your risk and strengthen your protection against malicious code. Please share your thoughts. We recently updated our anonymous product survey; we'd welcome your feedback. |