Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some steps which you can take to deter malware.
Content Jump:
- Deter Viruses, Worms and Trojans
- Deter Spyware and Adware
- Learn more about how an antivirus software works
Security patches and updates help protect your computer from new viruses, worms, and other threats as they are discovered. If you are using Windows, you can download the latest security updates from Microsoft’s website at: http://www.microsoft.com. If you are not using the latest version of your operating system, it is advisable to get the latest version of your operating system.
A reliable anti-virus software should:
- Automatically remove viruses, worms, and Trojan horses from your computer.
- Stop certain damaging Worms at the point of entry itself.
- Scans and cleans your incoming and outgoing email messages, hence reducing the risk of accidentally opening attachments containing malware.
- Detect certain non-virus threats such as spyware and adware.
If you happen to receive email attachments from unknown or anonymous people, do not open the attachment. Even if the attachment is from a trusted source, it is safer to scan the attachment before opening it.
Many free online email providers give their users free scanning of email attachments.
Many viruses and worms are often activated when the unsuspecting user open the malicious email attachment. Therefore, it is advisable not to open the email attachments blindly.
New viruses are found everyday. Hence it is vital that you frequently update your anti-virus software to stay protected. Theses updates are usually posted weekly, and it will usually take you only a couple of minutes to download them.
Some websites use cunning pop-ups that falsely appear to be warnings. In reality, these pop-ups actually encourage users to install some corrective software. Ignore these pop-ups.
Reference
Spyware and Malware: Prevention Begins With Users By Kevin Reichard
http://www.practicallynetworked.com/qwest/121604hosting.asp
Virus Detection and Prevention Tips
http://dispatch.mcafee.com/virus_tips.asp
Prevent Viruses
http://www.stcatharines.library.on.ca/techtalk/preventingviruses.htm