A virus or malware infection is something that a lot of computer users have experienced at some point. It is particularly frustrating to figure out a way to remove these intrusive applications with the least damage to personal files and programs. Most of us turn to anti virus software to resolve these issues. That’s the most common approach that most people would take. But it is also important to understand the root cause of the problem and start from there.
We quickly put the blame on computer viruses and that’s no coincidence. However, it’s not the viruses that are at fault at all times. There are instances that malware is to blame. Here are 10 tips that will help you remove these malicious programs off your computer and how to prevent them from coming back:
Install an anti-virus / anti-malware software
It’s a no brainer. This is one application that all computer should have regardless if they are personal or used for work. To avoid any nasty consequences of a malware attack, be sure to have anti-malware software installed. The added protection will decrease your chances of malware infection almost entirely.
Don’t let virus/malware definitions go outdated
Every day, there are new viruses and malware that are uploaded over the internet. Once your anti-virus software company finds this new malware, they add it to their list of known infections. They then send over these updated malware definitions to their subscribers to protect their customer’s computer from new malware. However, in some instances, anti-malware applications are not set to automatically update, which leaves the computer and personal information vulnerable to attacks. Always make sure that your software is always up to date.
Do regular scans
If you want tight information security on your computer, do regular scans. If your anti-virus software is up to date, the next thing you should do is regularly scan your computer, especially if you’re on the internet most of the time.
Keep your operating system up to date
Some operating systems have more support than others. Be sure that you are running your computer on the most recent OS. There are a lot of developers that focus on computer security, which means you are less likely to be infected on a more recent operating system than on an older one.
Add another level of network security
Today’s devices make use of wireless connectivity. However, there is a lot that could go wrong with the wireless printer that you wouldn’t want to happen. For all of your devices that connect to the internet, add a secure password. Your Wi-Fi also needs secure passwords, keeping your SSIDs safe from prying eyes.
Never click on anything dubious
If you receive an e-mail that contains an attachment of some sort, don’t be too quick to click on it. Make sure that the e-mail comes from reputable sources. Double check the sender before you open anything. Some phishing schemes make use of this method. Spending 5 minutes more on double checking will do a great deal for your security.
Be wary of what of sharing information on the internet
A lot of hackers hijack your information primarily because it’s just lying out there in the open. Be careful of what information you share over the internet. What you put out there could be used to steal your identity.
Never use open Wi-Fi
While the idea of getting free Wi-Fi sounds pretty tempting, never go on anything that doesn’t have any encryption. This could potentially be dangerous. Your data or anything that you open up while on that open Wi-Fi can be stolen.
Don’t leave your files without proper backup
If you’ve got a lot of important files on your computer, the first thing that you should do is to create a backup. Regardless of whether your primary files get infected or not, your backup will always be there. Cloud storage is most common nowadays and it’s done in real time. It’s also a cheaper alternative.
Don’t use one password on all accounts
A lot of us are guilty about this. Password1234 just won’t cut it anymore. Don’t use passwords that would typically be used and can be guessed quite easily. Use strong passwords with a combination of special characters. This will be harder to decipher and access your information.
