Malicious software, or “malware” is an operation installed on a computer or mobile device without the user’s permission. The spyware or virus can cause the device to crash and can enable the hacker to steal personal information.
Onguardonline.gov has identified steps for avoiding malware.
These steps include
- Keeping security software updated;
- Typing the url of a website into a browser instead of clicking on an email link;
- Avoiding opening attachments unless you know the source;
- Installing and downloading software from trusted websites, only;
- Keeping browser security high enough to detect unauthorized downloads;
- Using a pop-up blocker; and
- Backing up data regularly;
Computers should be monitored for unusual behavior. A computer may be infected with malware if it won’t shut down, slows, crashes or displays repeated error messages, identifies a barrage of pop-ups or displays unintended webpages.
More tips for avoiding and detecting malware can be found at www.onguardonline.com.
