Protecting Your Computer From Malware
by systrough.com
January 19, 2008
What Is Malware?
Malware refers collectively to malicious software such as computer viruses, worms, trojans, spyware, and adware. Not all malware is destructive. In fact, benign forms of malware such as spyware and adware are the most widespread form of malware on the Internet. Although not destructive to data, spyware and adware are a threat to your privacy and identity.
Preventing Malware Infections
You can prevent malware infections by changing your web surfing behavior and by using anti-malware software such as SpywareBlaster. The following two sub-sections will cover these areas.
Modification of Web Surfing Habits
Follow these web surfing guidelines to prevent infections:
- Keep your operating system, browser, and anti-malware software updated!
- Do not install software that pop-ups ask you to install.
- Do not download and use warez.
- Do not open emails from unknown senders.
- Do not download email attachments from unknown senders.
- Avoid downloading executable files off of P2P networks.
Anti-Malware Software
Download and install SpywareBlaster to “immunize” your computer from common types of malware that infect through browsers. SpywareBlaster works by blacklisting websites that are known to infect computers with malware. The generated blacklist is then added to your browser’s list of blocked websites.
Detecting and Removing Malware Infections
Download the following free software utilities to detect and remove malware:
- Spybot-S&D - A free tool for detecting and removing malware
- Ad-Aware - A tool for detecting and removing malware
- AVG Anti-Virus - A free anti-virus utility