Stay Safe Online: How to Safeguard a Computer from Malware

Are you trying to figure out how to safeguard a computer from malware? Read this article to learn tips for how to safeguard your computer.

Are you worried about suffering at the hands of cybercrime and computer malware?

Good! You should be.

Roughly 20% of people who use the internet are affected by malicious software every year. That’s 1 in 5 people having their computers damaged, files corrupted, money stolen, and sensitive information harvested by cybercriminals on an annual basis.

Clearly, in our digital era, everybody needs to be knowledgeable and proactive in terms of protecting themselves against this threat. Knowing how to safeguard a computer from malware is, quite simply, a critical skill that can save you huge amounts of hassle down the line.

Are you new to the world of computers and unsure how to proceed in this regard? Let us help. Keep reading to learn how to protect yourself from computer viruses.

Educate Yourself

Protecting yourself against anything, including cybercrime, requires an understanding of the threat itself. That’s why it’s so important to educate yourself on this topic.

Ignorance is your worst enemy.

For example, you can’t expect to avoid phishing scams if you don’t know what they are! You’ll get the email with an enticing offer and click the link without a second thought. Before you know it, the computer’s been hacked, your files encrypted, and you’re asked to pay a ransom to get them back.

And that’s just one example of how a lack of awareness can get you into trouble. Trust us when we say there are dozens more!

Start the process of thwarting cybercriminals and avoiding malware by learning more about the danger. Only then can you expect to avoid issues and be compelled to take appropriate action.

Update Your Computer Software

The world of malware is in a state of constant flux.

The threat is never constant. It shifts, changes, and develops at a frightening rate; cybercriminals are always searching for new ways to find and exploit flaws in computer software.

For this reason, software developers work hard to fix bugs that might be cause for concern. It’s like an ongoing game of cat and mouse, where criminals look to expose weaknesses and software creators look to resolve them.

In any case, those software updates are essential for protecting your computer. They resolve issues in previous versions and provide greater protection against cybercrime as a result. Leverage that newfound security by keeping your software up to date at all times.

Install Antivirus Software

Antivirus software is a first (and sometimes only) line of defense against malware.

It monitors your computer for threats, scans it for issues, warns you of risky websites, and actively thwarts potential attacks. In other words, it's an almighty weapon at your disposal in the battle against cyberthreats.

Everybody using the internet should have antivirus software installed. Especially when you discover that you can download it for free. Thanks to services like Avast, or Microsoft Security Essentials, you can enjoy high-quality internet protection at no expense.

Worried about viruses on your mac? You might find the answers you need at https://setapp.com/how-to/check-your-mac-for-viruses.

Be Sensible With Passwords

Passwords are to your computer what a lock is to the front door of your house.

They help keep intruders and wrongdoers out; your worldly possessions and personal safety are kept safer as a result. Just as you need a high-quality lock on your doors, you need strong passwords on your computer.

We’re afraid that ‘password’, your birthday, or pet’s name don’t quite cut it! They’re too easy to guess. Any hacker worth their salt will gain entry in moments.

They should be long (think 8 characters or more) and use a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols. Try to create a different password for each online account as well, as opposed to one ‘master key’ password that allows entry to everything.

You could also think about setting up two-factor authentication. Entering a primary password will send a code through to your mobile. Only with that second code can someone gain entry to your account(s).

Have a Backup

Way too many people fail to back-up their computers.

They may fail to realize the threat or assume everything will be fine. In any case, they keep a single copy of the files saved to their computer- and that’s it.

It’s a recipe for trouble! You risk losing everything if something calamitous happens to the computer. The report you’ve nearly finished, the photos from your latest holiday, and your digital music collection, to name just a few, could all disappear.

You’re at the mercy of malware too.

Through ransomware, for example, cybercriminals can seize control of your computer and demand thousands of dollars in exchange for giving it back. Until you pay up, the device (and your treasured files) remains unusable; the files inaccessible.

Having backups reduces the risk involved. Even if a hacker destroys the computer, you know you have saved versions of the files on it elsewhere.

Avoid Suspicious Websites

Some websites are nothing but trouble. Clicking through and interacting with them opens up a Pandora’s Box full of problems.

Unsecure websites, for example, can allow cybercriminals to access your computer, intercept your activity, and steal your personal details. Other websites have ads that download malware to your devices or tempting links that do the same.

This is another reason to install quality antivirus software! It should help you avoid these sites by identifying anything untoward about them.

Exactly How to Safeguard a Computer from Malware

Malicious software is more of a threat than ever before.

Tens of millions of people fall foul of it every year. They visit dodgy websites, click on dangerous links, and download files that lead to a wide range of debilitating outcomes. Cyber attacks lead to the loss of essential files, the disturbance of standard operations, financial blackmail, and masses of stress and frustration.

That’s why knowing how to safeguard a computer from malware is so important these days. It’s about understanding the risks involved and taking sensible precautions to avoid worst-case eventualities. Hopefully, the information in this post will help you do exactly that.

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