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HOW TO PROTECT AGAINST PC VIRUSES
Did you know that there are millions of malware pieces in existence, and hackers create thousands of new viruses each day? Here's how you can tell if your PC has a virus-related problem:
- Antivirus software may be disabled and/or will not start;
- Infected computers will often run slower than the usual, and may even stop responding to commands for good;
- Some computers will restart all of the sudden. This could also be a driver-related problem, though;
- You may see unusual pop-ups, warnings or error messages;
- Strange icons and browser plugins may make their way onto your computer's desktop and in the browser bar.
These days, computer viruses are commonly spread through infected email attachments. Here's what you can do to keep your computer safe.
1. Keep the operating system updated.
If you've purchased an OS license, you are entitled to receive software updates and patches for it. So, be sure to install them all as soon as they are made available. Always make a backup of the system partition before applying a new OS patch, of course.
2. Update all the installed applications.
Software manufacturers improve their products regularly, making them more powerful and fixing potential issues. To stay safe, keep the apps updated as well. And if the developers have stopped updating a certain piece of software, try to find a replacement for it, and then uninstall it for good.
3. Install an antivirus.
Lots of people believe that they can't get their computers infected because they are very careful. And yet, any PC can be affected by malware if its owner visits a particular website page or inserts an infected memory stick into one of the USB ports.
To stay safe, install an antivirus application. Windows 10 now includes a 100% free, decent malware protection suite, which should help people keep their computers free from most viruses.
4. Use a firewall.
Most firewalls will alert you and take action anytime something suspicious is happening across your network. Software firewalls are now incorporated in the O.S. itself, but for best results you should use a dedicated hardware equipment. The good news is that most routers incorporate powerful hardware-based firewalls as well.
5. Avoid visiting suspicious websites.
Some sites may provide costly applications for free, as well as other interesting content, but they will often install malware on your computer. The conclusion is simple: always pay for the needed software or find a freeware alternative that can be downloaded from a reputable site.
6. Don't open email attachments.
Yes, don't ever open an attachment, even if it comes from your mom! Download it to a folder, and then scan it using an antivirus. And make sure that all the unsolicited emails are sent straight to the trash folder, even if they have enticing titles.
7. Always use complex passwords.
Once that they've planted a piece of malware onto your computer, cyber criminals will try to get access to your accounts, credit card info, etc. By making use of two-factor authentication systems that include complex passwords, you should be able to keep those accounts safe even if hackers manage to break into your PC.
8. Stay up to date.
Visit computer security news sites regularly to learn as much as possible about new threats as they emerge. This way, if something goes bad, you will be prepared.
