This week we are discussing ways to protect your privacy while browsing online. One of the key threats to your online privacy is malware which can be picked up from email attachments, clicking on links to unknown websites, clicking on pop-up windows, file sharing via the web or free downloads. Microsoft describes the term malware as being derived from the "two words 'malicious software,' and refers to any software that is designed to cause damage to a computer, server, or network. Viruses, spyware, worms, key loggers, and Trojans are examples of malware. If you click links that are disguised as images, audio, or video files which might appear on suspicious websites or in Instant Messages (IMs) or email messages, you might expose your computer to malware. In some cases, malware can even be hidden in files that have been uploaded to reputable websites. Malware can:
- Corrupt data.
- Slow down your computer.
- Use your email or instant message(IM) program to spread itself to other computers.
- Erase everything on your computer.
- Result in identity theft or give a criminal access to your web accounts."*
To help protect your computer from malware, you should should install anti-virus software including a firewall and be sure to update the software regularly. As an extra preventive step, adjust the security settings on your browser to control the types of websites that can be accessed, block pop-ups, how cookies are handled, etc.
If you have malware on your computer and need help removing those files, give us a call at
See also:
- Help! My PC is infected with malware (FAQ)
- Apple - Mac OS X - Security - Keeps safe from viruses and malware
- How to prevent spyware
- A guide from the Federal Trade Commission - Minimizing the Effects of Malware of Your Computer
*Source: www.microsoft.com/protect/learnabout/iemalware.aspx
No comments:
Post a Comment