How To Protect Your Computer From Malicious Software

Posted on February 5, 2012 by admin

malicious softwareThe Internet has many benefits and has opened so many doors.  Who would have thought in the 80′s that in twenty years we’d be able to “Skype” with our friend thousands of miles away?  We wouldn’t even know what “skype” meant for that matter!  Like most other new technologies, there is a downside to the Internet as well; spyware, adware, trojan horses, computer viruses, keyloggers, identity theft….The list goes on and on.  Cyber criminals are using malicious software to steal your identity; leading you to becoming the next victim of identity theft, one of the fastest growing crimes in Canada and the USA.  Don’t despair just yet.  It is good to know that there are steps to take to protect your computer from malicious software.

  • Install anti-virus software:  This is the first line of defense against computer viruses and other malicious software.  Many of the Internet security vendors, such as Kaspersky and Norton, offer fully functional free trials of anti-virus software.   AVG AntiVirus is free as well.  Remember that your anti-virus software is only as good as the last update.  Make sure you run a “full system scan” on a regular basis as well.
  • Install anti-spyware software:  Anti-virus software does a great job at detecting and removing computer viruses, but does not detect all spyware.  To protect yourself from malicious software, including spyware, it is important to have anti-spyware software installed.  There is reputable free anti-spyware software available for download, such as SpyBot Search & Destroy.  All they ask is for a donation.
  • Install anti-keylogger software:  Keyloggers are malicious software that silently records every keystroke that you type and even captures screen shots.  This can lead you to becoming a victim of identity theft.  Anti-virus software only detects some keystroke loggers.  Anti-spyware software fares better, detecting most, but certainly not all keyloggers.  You need anti-keylogger software to detect and block keyloggers.  I use and recommend Zemana AntiLogger.  Please CLICK HERE for a fully functional free trial of Zemana AntiLogger.
  • Have a firewall:  A firewall acts as a barrier between your computer and the Internet; keeping hackers out and stopping malicious software already installed on your computer from sending personal info to cyber criminals.  ZoneAlarm offers a free firewall, available for download online.  Windows XP, Vista, and 7 all include an absolutely free firewall; ensure it is activated.
  • Avoid visiting sites containing pornography, shareware, freeware, warez, file sharing, and the like:  These sites are notorious for containing malicious software.  You very well may be getting more than you bargained for with that pirated “free movie” you downloaded.
  • Don’t open email attachments from unkown senders:  In fact, even if you know the sender, be leery if you are not expecting the attachment or it looks unfamiliar.  Their email account could be compromised or someone could be spoofing their email address.  The attachment could be infected with malware, such as a trojan horse, spyware, or keylogger.
  • Be cautious when using flash drives, floppy disks, and CD-ROM’s:  Be especially careful when using someone elses or yours in another computer.  They could spread a virus, keylogger, trojan horse, spyware, or other malicious software to your computer.  Be sure to scan a flash drive, etc., used in another compute,r with anti-virus software.
Posted in Internet security tips, malware | Leave a comment

Top 10 Internet Security Tips

Posted on February 5, 2012 by admin

internet security tipsThe Internet has enhanced our lives so many ways.  Who would have thought you could watch your favourite movie online or Skype with your cousin “down under” as if she was right in your living room.   The Internet truly is an amazing thing.  Just like most new technologies that increase our standard of living, there is a downside to the Internet as well.  Viruses, trojan horses, worms, spyware, adware, identity theft…..The list of online threats seems almost endless; a very real threat to our Internet security and privacy.  Don’t throw your computer out the window and disconnect the television forever just yet.  Fortunately, there are some Internet security tips that will increase our online security and privacy.

  • Install anti-virus software:  Anti-virus software is your first line of defense against computer viruses and other malicious software.  There is reputable free anti-virus software available for download online, such as AVG AntiVirus.  Many Internet security vendors, such as Norton and Kaspersky, offer fully functional free trials of anti-virus software.  Remember that anti-virus software is only as good as the last update.  Also, schedule a “full system scan” on a regular basis.
  • Install anti-spyware software:  It is essential for your Internet security and privacy to have anti-spyware software installed.  Many people are not aware that while anti-virus software detects most spyware, it does not detect all.  You need anti-spyware software to detect and remove spyware.  I use Spybot Search & Destroy, which is free of charge.  All they ask is for a donation.  Be leery in installing free anti-spyware software that you are not familiar with.   It could trick you into paying $39.99 or whatever to remove the “trojan horse” that it found(it’ll say this to everyone no matter if there system is infected with a trojan horse or not) and even contain spyware or other malicious software.  The later could actually lead you to becoming a victim of identity theft, one of the fastest growing crimes in Canada and the USA.
  • Install anti-keylogger software:  This often forgotten Internet security software is actually very important to have to protect you from keyloggers, also known as keystroke loggers.  This malicious software silently records every keystroke that you type, even capturing screen shots.  Computer viruses and other malware are in fact often bundled with keyloggers.  Anti-virus software does a dismal job protecting you from keyloggers; only detecting a small percentage.  Anti-spyware software fares better, detecting most , but certainly not all keyloggers.  I use and trust Zemana AntiLogger to detect and block keyloggers. Unlike other Internet security software, it does not rely on virus signatures and “full system scans” to detect keyloggers.  CLICK HERE to download a free fully functional trial of Zemana AntiLogger.
  • Install a firewall:  A firewall acts as a barrier between your computer and other computers; keeping hackers out and blocking any malicious software already installed on your computer from sending personal information to cyber criminals.  There is free firewalls available for download online, such as ZoneAlarm.    Windows XP, Vista, and 7 all include a free firewall.  Ensure that it is activated.
  • Keep your operating system up-to-date:  Ensure that your operating system is set to update automatically.
  • Try to avoid visiting sites containing pornography, file sharing, warez, shareware, freeware, and the like.  These sites are notorious for containing computer viruses, spyware, and other malicious software.
  • Use strong passwords and change your password often:  Resist the urge to use the same password for every application and site; email, banking, etc.  Your password should be at least 8 characters in length; a combination of numbers, symbols, capital letters, and small letters.
  • Disconnect your computer from the Internet when not in use:  The longer your computer is on the Internet the greater the chance of your computer being hacked.
  • Encrypt your WiFi (wireless) network and change the routers default username/password:  Learn more onhow to secure your wireless (WiFi) Internet Connection.
  • Don’t open email attachments from an unknown sender:  In fact, even if you do know the sender, be extra cautious if you are not expecting the attachment or it doesn’t look familiar.  The senders email could be compromised or someone could be spoofing there email address.
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How To Secure Your Wireless (WiFi) Network

Posted on February 4, 2012 by admin

wireless internetIt is essential for your internet security and privacy that you take some steps to secure your wireless network.

If you don’t take steps to secure your wireless network, anyone within range of your router can easily connect to your network. With the latest high performance equipment, your WiFi signal could reach clear down the block.  In fact, a hacker could intercept your WiFi signal as far as ten miles away, using a WiFi antenna created with a Pringles can.

If you have an unsecured wireless network, it is easy for a hacker to see exactly what you are doing on your Network. They could install malicious software, such as a keystroke logger, onto your computer; allowing the criminal to see every keystroke that you make. This could ultimately lead you to becoming a victim of identity theft, one of the fastest growing crimes in Canada and the USA.  People could also steal your bandwidth, slowing down your Internet connection to a crawl.  They could even use so much of your bandwidth, downloading huge files such as movies, that your ISP charges you for the extra bandwidth used on your account   Someone could even use your Internet connection for illegal activity.  Scared yet?!?  Here are some steps to take to secure your wireless internet connection.

The first line of defense for your WiFi network is encryption.  Encryption encodes the data transmitted between your computer and wireless router.  Most routers ship with encryption turned off.  Unfortunately, many people don’t turn it on, leaving themselves totally exposed. If you haven’t already, enable your router’s encryption, using the strongest form supported by your Network. The Wireless Encryption Protocol(WEP) is far less secure than the Wireless Protected Access(WPA) protocol and the more recent WPA2. If at all possible, use WPA or WPA2, since WEP is easy for a hacker to crack. The keys used by WPA and WPA2 change dynamically, making them nearly impossible to hack. It is important that you use a strong password for your encryption key, using a combination of letters and numbers of fourteen characters or more.

If you are one of those that has an older router that only supports WEP, you`ll be most secure using 128-bit WEP keys.   However, be sure to check the manufacturer`s web site for a firmware update that will add WPA support.  If you have an older router, you should be happy to know that most older equipment can be upgraded to be WPA compatible.

It is crucial that you change the default network name and password on your router.  This is because the default network name and password are easily obtained.  Most devices use a weak default password like “password” or the manufacture’s name.  Believe it or not, some don’t have any default password at all!  Just make sure that you don’t change the default network password to something that is easily guessed, such as your first and last name. Doing so will make it much harder for hackers to break into your router, taking control of its settings.

The easiest step you can take to help secure your WiFi (wireless) Internet connection is to simply turn off your router when not in use.  Especially when you are away for an extended period of time, such as going on a vacation.  If your router is turned off, this definitely will ensure that hackers don’t break into your Network.

Enable the firewall in your router.  For added protection be sure to have firewall software installed on your computer.  There are free firewalls available for download on the Internet.  The firewall built into your router prevents hackers on the Internet from getting access to your PC.

Also, have anti-virus software installed on your computer.  AVG AntiVirus is free for personal use. It is critical that you keep your anti-virus software up to date.  Your anti-virus software is only as good as the last update. There are countless viruses and other malware created everyday. Internet security companies are constantly playing a cat and mouse game to keep up with the latest viruses and other malicious software.

Have anti-spyware software installed on your computer. There is free anti-spyware software available for download on the Internet. Maximum PC actually suggests that you have Spybot Search and Destroy and two other anti-spyware programs installed on your PC. Windows Vista actually includes Windows Defender, an anti-spyware program.

Finally, make sure that your operating system is up to date and that you have downloaded the latest security patches.

Following these steps can drastically increase your wireless WiFi internet security and privacy.

Posted in WiFi (Wireless) Internet | Leave a comment

Do I Really Need Anti-Keylogger Software?

Posted on February 3, 2012 by admin

keyloggerRecently I saw a post on a popular Internet security forum from someone wondering if it really was necessary to have anti-keylogger software installed on their system.  They were particularly concerned about someone stealing their banking information.  They were wondering if they were just be paranoid or if it is a legitimate concern.

Unfortunately, in today’s world of a growing number of Internet security and privacy threats, it is essential to have anti-keylogger software installed on your computer.  Many viruses, spyware, trojan horses and other malicious software are actually bundled with a keylogger, also known as a keystroke logger.

This malware silently records every keystroke you type, sometimes even capturing screen shots.  Cyber criminals could steal your personal information; credit card numbers, banking information, passwords, etc.  This could lead you to becoming the next victim of identity theft, one of the fastest growing crimes in Canada and the USA.

Keyloggers are indeed a very real threat to your Internet security and privacy.

Now, you might be saying, “well, I have anti-virus and anti-spyware software installed on my computer.  Isn’t that going to detect and remove keyloggers?”  Anti-virus and anti-spyware is an excellent step towards preventing your computer from being infected with keyloggers and other malicious software.  That said and done, while anti-virus software does an excellent job protecting you from viruses, it only detects a small percentage of keystroke loggers.  Anti-spyware software fares better, detecting most, but certainly not all keyloggers.  You need reputable anti-keylogger software to detect and block keystroke loggers.

I personally use and recommend to others Zemana Anti-keylogger.  This anti-keylogger software works differently than traditional Internet security software, which relies on anti-virus signature updates and file scanning.  It actually detects malware and shuts it down.  CLICK HERE to download a 15 day fully functional free trial of Zemana AntiLogger.

Keyloggers, and other malicious software, are a very real online threat.  They could lead you to becoming yet another statistic; added to the growing list of victims of Identity theft. Protect your privacy and personal information; install a reputable anti-keylogger software.

Posted in keylogger, Keystroke loggers | Leave a comment

How To Prevent, Detect, And Remove Computer Viruses

Posted on February 3, 2012 by admin

computer virusIs your computer acting strange?  Getting strange error messages or your computer crashing altogether?  Your computer could very well be infected with a virus.  Don’t throw your computer out the window just yet.  It is good to know that there are some steps to take to detect, remove, and prevent your computer being infected with a virus.

A computer virus can range from a downright annoyance all the way to a very real threat to your Internet security and privacy.  This malware can do everything from erasing your computers hard drive to installing spyware, such as a keystroke logger.   The later is monitoring software, which silently records every keystroke you type, even taking actual screen shots.  This could lead you to becoming a victim of identity theft, one of the fastest growing crimes in Canada and the USA.

Pehaps even worst yet, many viruses even use your computer to send viruses and other malicious software to other people.  A person infected with a virus could be unknowingly sending a virus to everyone in there email address book. 

It sure is good to know that there are some steps to take to detect, remove, and prevent your computer from being infected with a virus.

How To Detect & Remove A Virus

To be certain that your computer is indeed infected with a virus, you need to install anti-virus software.  Make sure that your anti-virus software is up-to-date, as anti-virus software is only as good as the last update.  Each and every single day new viruses, trojan horses, spyware, keyloggers, and other malicous software are created. Internet security companies are constantly playing a cat and mouse game to detect the newest viruses and other Internet security and privacy threat.  Don’t have anti-virus software installed on your computer?  It’s good to know that there is free anti-virus software available for download online, such as AVG AntiVirus.  Many Internet security software vendors, such as Norton and Kaspersky, offer fully functional free trials of anti-virus software.

Fortunately, most anti-virus software will automatically remove any viruses or other malware that it finds.  That said and done, if anti-virus software cannot remove the virus your computer is infected with, there are free virus removal tools available online to remove viruses.

How To Prevent Becoming Infected With A Virus

When it comes to computer viruses and other Internet security and privacy threats, an ounce of prevention is indeed worth a pound of cure.  It is good to know that there are some simple steps you can take to prevent having your computer infected with a virus or other malicious software.

  • Try to avoid sites containing file sharing, shareware, freeware, pornography, and the like.  These sites are notorious for containing viruses and other malware
  • Next, avoid opening an email attachment from someone you don’t know. In fact, don’t even open an email attachment from someone you know, unless you know specifically what the attachment is.  That email attachment might contain more than you bargained for, being bundled with a computer virus or other malware.
  • Be sure to keep your operating system up to date.  Enable Windows Updates to download and install the newest updates automatically. To configure Windows Vista or 7 to install updates automatically, click the Start button, followed by All Programs, Windows Update, and Change settings. Now, select Install Updates Automatically. Use the drop down menu below to select the time and date to install new updates. Finally, click on the OK icon.
  • Install firewall software.  There is actually free firewall software available for download on the Internet, such as ZoneAlarm Free Edition.  Windows XP, Vista, and 7 all include a free firewall.  If you have no other firewall software installed, ensure that it is activated.
  • Install anti-virus software:  This is your first line of defense against viruses and other malicous software.  There is reputable free anti-virus software available for download on the Internet, such as AVG Anti-Virus.  Many Internet security software vendors offer fully functional free trials of anti-virus software as well.  Remember that anti-virus software is only as good as the last update.  Also, it is a good idea to run a “full system scan” on a regular basis.
  • Install anti-spyware software:  Anti-virus software protects you against most, but certainly not all spyware.  That is why it is essential for your Internet security and privacy to have anti-spyware software installed on your computer.  There is reputable free anti-spyware software available for download on the Internet, such as Spybot Search & Destroy.
  • Install anti-keylogger software:  Anti-virus software only detects a small percentage of keyloggers, also known as keystroke loggers.  Anti-spyware software fares better, detecting most keyloggers, but certainly not all.  You need anti-keylogger software installed on your computer to protect you against keyloggers.  I personally use and recommend to others Zemana Anti-keylogger.  It works differently than traditional Internet security software, which relies on anti-virus signature updates and file scanning.  This anti-keylogger software in  fact detects malware and shuts it down.  CLICK HERE to download a 15 day fully-functional free trial of Zemana.

When it comes to internet security an ounce of prevention is indeed worth a pound of cure. Isn’t it good to know that there are some basic steps you can take to help prevent having your computer infected with a virus and other malicious software? However, if your computer has been infected with a virus or other malware, it is reassuring to know that there are free internet security software and tools available to detect and remove them.

Posted in Computer viruses | Leave a comment

How To Prevent Becoming A Victim Of Online Auction Fraud

Posted on February 3, 2012 by admin

internet auction fraudIf you are at all like me, you use an online auction site, such as eBay, to purchase and sell merchandise online.  You might be interested to know that Internet auction fraud is the most common offense reported to the Internet Crime Complaint Center, a partnership of the FBI and the National White Collar Crime Center.  This all too common online crime involves the misrepresentation of a product advertised for sale through an Internet auction site, such as eBay.  Internet auction fraud can also come in the way of actual non-delivery of a product that you purchased through an Internet auction web site.  Internet auction fraud is a very real threat to your Internet security and privacy.

Fortunately there are some steps you can take to help prevent becoming a victim of Internet auction fraud.  When it comes to Internet auction fraud, like other online threats, an ounce of prevention is indeed worth a pound of cure.

  • Before you bid, it is wise to understand as much as possible about how the auction works.  Be sure to find out exactly what your obligations are as a buyer.  Don’t forget to find out what the seller’s obligations are as well.
  • Find out precisely what action the online auction site takes if a problem occurs.  You also might want to consider spending a few dollars to  insure the transaction and shipment.
  • Learn as much as possible about the seller, especially if the only information you have is an e-mail address.  Avoid doing business with sellers you cannot identify.  Run, don’t walk away, from those who try to lure you off the auction site with promises of a better deal.
  • If the seller is an actual business, make sure you check them out with Better Business Bureau where they are located.
  • Have a look at  the feedback on the seller.
  • Prior to bidding find out what method of payment the seller is asking from the buyer.  Also be sure to know where they are asking you to send the payment.
  • Think twice about bidding if the seller resides outside of your country.  It could be much more difficult to take action against a seller who doesn’t live in your country, due to a difference in laws.
  • If the seller insists on using a specific escrow or online payment service that you have never heard of, check it out.  Visit its website as well as call its customer service line.  If there isn’t one, or you call and are unable to reach anyone, don’t use that service.
  •  Ask the seller about when delivery of the item(s) can be expected. Also find out if there is a problem with the merchandise is it covered by a warranty or can you exchange it.
  • To ensure no surprises with unexpected costs, find out if shipping and delivery are included in the auction price or are additional costs.
  •  Do not give out your social security number or drivers license to the seller.  There is no reason what so ever to give this information to the seller.  This is a very real threat to your Internet security and privacy.  As scary at it sounds the seller could use this personal information to steal your identity.  This could lead you to be added to the ever-growing list of victims of identity theft, one of the fastest growing crimes in Canada and the USA.

As you can see there are a few basic steps you can take to help prevent you from becoming yet another victim of Internet auction fraud.

Posted in Internet auction fraud, Internet scams | Leave a comment

4 Essential Internet Security Software Everyone Needs

Posted on February 3, 2012 by admin

internet securityWith the growing number of online threats out in the world of cyberspace it is essential for your Internet security and privacy to have Internet security software installed.  Many people believe that all that they need to protect them from viruses, spyware, trojan horses, keyloggers, and other malicious software is anti-virus software.  Yes, it is crucial to have anti-virus software installed.  That said and done, anti-virus software does not protect you against all online threats.  It is crucial for your Internet security and privacy to have other Internet security software installed.  Wondering exacty what Internet security software you need?  Here is a list of Internet security software essential for every computer user to have in their arsenal to defend themselves from viruses, spyware, trojans, keyoggers, etc.

  • Anti-virus software:  As I mentioned above, it is crucial for your Internet security and privacy to have antivirus software installed on your computer.  You don’t have to break your pocketbook either to get anti-virus software.  There is reputable free anti-virus software available for download on the Internet, such as AVG AntiVirus.  Many of the vendors of paid anti-virus software, such as Norton and Kaspersky, offer fully functional free trials of there Internet security software.  Remember that Internet security software is only as good as the last update.
  • Anti-keylogger software:  Anti-virus software only protects you against some keyloggers.  Anti-spyware software does a better job, protecting you against most but certainly not all keyloggers.  You need anti-keylogger software installed on your computer, to detect and block keyloggers.  I personally use and recommend to others Zemana Anti-keylogger.  It works differently than traditional Internet security software, which relies on anti-virus signature updates and file scanning.  It actually detects malware and shuts it down.  CLICK HERE to download a 15 day fully-functional free trial of Zemana.
  • Anti-spyware software:  Many people do not realize that anti-virus software does not protect them against all spyware.  Anti-virus software protects users from most, but certainly not all spyware.  That is why it is essential to have anti-spyware software installed.  There is reputable free anti-spyware software available for download online, such as Spybot Search & Destroy.  It is very important to download anti-spyware software that is reputable.  Unfortunately, there are cyber-criminals that prey on the consumers fear of spyware and wanting a good deal at the same time.  They do this by offering a “free scan” for spyware by download there software.  After the “scan” is complete, you are always told that your computer has been infected with a “trojan horse”, no matter if you have one or not.  You are advised to pay $39.99 or whatever to purchase a fully functional version of the software to remove the “trojan” from your operating system.  This “anti-spyware software” could even be bundled with actual spyware or other malicious software.  This could lead you to becoming a victim of identity theft, one of the fastest growing crimes in Canada and the USA.
  • Firewall:  Firewalls are essential for your Internet security and privacy.  To put it simply, they keep hackers out and prevent anti malware already installed on your computer to any personal information, etc. to cyber-criminals.  There is free firewall software available for download, such as Zone Alarm.  Windows XP, Vista, and 7 all include a free firewall.  If you don’t have any other firewall installed, ensure that it is activated.
Posted in Internet security tips | Leave a comment

How To Speed Up A Slow PC

Posted on February 1, 2012 by admin

slow computerIs your PC running slower than a turtle?  Wondering how to speed up a slow PC?  Don’t throw your computer out the window just yet.  It is good to know that there are a few simple tips to help speed up your slow PC.

  • Install Anti-virus software:  Anti-virus software is absolutely essential for both your Internet security as well as to keep your PC running smoothly.  Not only is a virus a threat to your Internet security and privacy.  It can also slow your computer to a crawl.  Many anti-virus software vendors, such as Kaspersky and Norton, offer free fully-functional trials of their software.  There is also free reputable anti-virus software available for download, such as AVG AntiVirus Free Edition.  Remember that anti-virus software is only as good as your last update.
  • Install Anti-spyware software:  Like viruses, spyware can really slow your PC down.  This is because is designed to steal your personal information; not run smoothly.  As a side note, not only does spyware slow down your  PC and otherwise wreak havoc on your PC; it is also a very real threat to your Internet security and privacy, leading you to become a victim of identity theft.  Anti-virus software detects most spyware, but not all.  That is why it is crucial to install anti-spyware software.  I have Spybot Search & Destroy installed on my PC, which is absolutely free of charge.
  • Registry needs cleaning:  Registry errors can can certainly slow your PC down; a source of Windows errors and outright computer crashes.  I personally both use and recommend Registry Mechanic for cleaning your PC registry of errors, duplicate files, and files leftover from uninstalling software on your PC.  I installed Registry Mechanic when my computer was running slow and it found and repaired over 152 registry errors, duplicate files, etc!  Almost immediately, I noticed a signifigant increase in both my PC’s speed and performance.  I have been so satisfied with Registry Mechanic that I recommended this software long before I became an affiliate of it.  CLICK HERE for a hundred-percent free scan of your PC for registry errors with Registry Mechanic.  
  • Hard Drive Full Of Clutter:  If you have surfed the Internet for any length of time your computer’s hard drive is full of browser cache, duplicate files, temporary files, etc.  Many people don’t realize it, but Windows keeps a copy of every picture downloaded, web site visited, etc. stored in your hard drive.  Besides being a threat to your Internet security and privacy, this can over time drastically reduce your computers performance and speed.  Back in 2006 I discovered Cyberscrub Privacy Suite;  software that permanently and securely deletes files on your hard drive.  The first time that I used Cyberscrub Privacy Suite I deleted over 7 gb of temporary files, browser cache, etc. off my hard drive!  I was amazed at the increase in both my computers speed and performance.  CLICK HERE for a free, fully function 15-day trial of Cyberscrub Privacy Suite.
  • Your Hard Drive Needs Defragmenting: Last but certainly not least, defragging your hard drive can speed up your PC at the same time increasing its performance.  How does fragmentation occur you ask?  Well, glad you asked.  It occurs when an operating system breaks a file into pieces.  It does this because there is not enough space on the storage device where the file was originally saved.  You can use the defrag utility on Windows 98, ME, XP, and Vista, and Windows 7 to defragment your PC’s hard drive.   Please remember that this can be a time consuming process, taking up to several hours.  It is well worth it though, as defragging your computer can certainly help speed up your PC.
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How To Prevent & Detect Malware

Posted on January 23, 2012 by admin

malwareMalware is a term used to describe a wide range of damaging software that includes computer viruses, trojan horses, spyware, keyloggers, and other malicious software. 

Malware can cause many problems, ranging from a downright annoyance to a serious Internet security and privacy threat:  slowing your computer to a crawl, causing your computer to crash, and even having your personal information stolen.  The later can lead to identity theft, one of the fastest growing crimes in Canada and the USA.  

 It is good to know that there are some steps to take to detect and at the same time prevent malware.  When it comes to this malicious software and other Internet security and privacy threats, an ounce of prevention is indeed worth a pound of cure.

  • Install anti-virus software:  This Internet security software is the first line of defense against malware.  If you have do nothing else to help prevent and detect malware, have anti-virus software installed.  It is good to know that there is reputable and free anti-virus software available for download on the Internet.  Other anti-virus software vendors offer fully-functional free trials.  Remember that anti-virus software is only as good as the last update.
  • Install anti-spyware software:  Anti-virus software detects most, but by no means all spyware.  This is why it is essential for your Internet security and privacy to have anti-spyware software installed.  There is free anti-spyware software available for download, absolutely free of charge, including Spybot Search & Destroy.  All they ask is for a donation.  It is important to remember to only download anti-spyware from a reputable source, as there are many “free anti-spyware” programs available for download or “free spyware scans”, that only infect your computer with more malicious software and/or ask you to spend $39.99 to remove the”trojan horse”(they tell everyone they have a “trojan horse”, no matter if you have one or not).  This malware, disguised as anti-spyware software can hit you more than just in the pocketbook; it can cause you to become a victim of identity theft.
  • Use a firewall:  This Internet security software acts as a barrier between you and other computers out there.  It helps prevent hackers from remotely installing malware on your computer.  At the same time, it prevents any malicious software already on your computer to send personal information from your computer to a cyber criminal.  There are free firewalls available for download online, such as ZoneAlarm.  Windows XP, Vista, and 7 all include an absolutely free firewall.  If you have no other firewall installed on your computer, ensure that it is activated.
  • Install anti-keylogger software:  Keyloggers are malware which silently records every keystroke you type or even screenshots of your computer screen.  Anti-virus software all detects a minority of keyloggers, also known as keystroke loggers.  Anti-spyware software does a better job, detecting most keyloggers.  You need anti-keylogger software installed to detect and block keyloggers.
  • Don’t open an email attachment from someone you do not know:  It could very well be infected with malware.  A matter fact, even if you do know the sender, be cautious if you are not expecting the attachment.  This is because the senders email could be spoofed and/or their email account could be compromised.
  • Avoid visiting sites containing pornography, shareware, freeware, warez, file sharing, and the like.  These sites are well known for being infected with malware.
  • Keep your operating system up-to-date:  This will help protect you from the latest Internet security and privacy threats.  It is a good idea to set your computer to update automatically.
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How To Prevent & Detect Spyware

Posted on January 22, 2012 by admin

spywareSpyware is a type of malicious software installed on your computer to collect personal information without your knowledge.  Spyware can change your operating system’s settings, web browser settings such as Home Page, slow your computer down, and even cause your computer to crash altogether. 

Worst yet, cyber criminals can use spyware, such as keyloggers, to collect personal information about you; web sites visited, banking info, credit card numbers, email, passwords, etc.  Armed with this information, they can steal your identity.  As a result, you can become the next victim of identity theft, one of the fastest growing crimes in Canada and the USA.  As you can see, this malicious software is indeed a real threat to your Internet security and privacy.

Fortunately, there are some steps that you can take to prevent and detect spyware.

  • Use anti-virus software:  This is an important first step, in detecting and preventing spyware and other malicious software.  There is reputable free anti-virus software available for download on the Internet, such as AVG AntiVirus.  You can also download fully-functional free-trials of many anti-virus software vendors, such as Norton and Kaspersky.  It is important for your Internet security and privacy to keep your anti-virus software up-to-date.  Remember that anti-virus software is only as good as the last update.
  • Use anti-spyware software:  Anti-virus software does not protect you against all spyware, so it is essential to install anti-spyware software.  I use SpyBot Search & Destroy, which is free of charge.  All they ask is for a donation.
  • Use firewall software:  Firewalls are a barrier between you and other computers.  They help prevent hackers from attacking your computer; installing spyware and other malicious sofware.  They also stop malicious software already installed on your computer from sending your personal information, such as banking info and passwords, to the cyber criminal.  There are reputable and free firewall software available for download on the Internet, such as ZoneAlarm.  Windows XP, Vista, and 7 all include a free firewall.  If you have no other firewall software installed, ensure that it is activated.
  • Use anti-keylogger software:  It is essential to have anti-keylogger software installed on your computer to detect and block keyloggers, a type of spyware.  Anti-virus software only detects a small percentage of keyloggers.  Anti-spyware software detects most, but certainly not all keyloggers.  This is why it is crucial for your Internet security and privacy to have anti-keylogger software installed on your computer.
  • Don’t open email attachments from unknown senders:  Even if you know the sender, be wary of opening an attachment if you aren’t expecting it.  This is because their account could be compromised or a cyber criminal could be spoofing their email address.
  • Try not to visit sites containing file sharing, warez, shareware, freeware, pornography, and the like:  These sites are notorious for containing spyware and other malicious software.  If you insist on visiting these sites, ensure Internet security software is installed and up-to-date.  Scan any attachments with your anti-virus software before opening.
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