Malware and Ransomware is the scourage of the internet. To help combat against the constant threat posed by cyber hackers and online criminals we have created a list of steps to help improve your online security and the security of your computer.
Step. 1 – Always Be Vigilant When Opening E-Mails
Phishing emails often contain attachments which look like invoices or tax rebates. Opening these attachments will allow the virus to infect your computer.
It’s important that you never open attachments unless you are certain that you know what they contain. Many viruses are spread via attachments that look like invoices and tax rebates so please be ultra-cautious.
As strange as this may seem, many fake e-mails, web pages and attachments often include bad spelling (“PayePal” instead of “PayPal” for example) and look unusual from the standard templates used by reputable companies. These should both act as a red flag.
Top Tip – Looking at the e-mail address that the e-mail has been sent from can often be another tip that something is not right. If you are unsure, forward the e-mail to the company that is purporting to contact you and ask them if the e-mail is valid.
Step. 2 – Back Up Your Files Regularly
Our final tip is not a preventative measure and is instead a damage limitation exercise.
Should your PC become infected it is essential that you have taken regular back-ups to ensure that the damage is not too severe.
Free online services such Google Drive and Dropbox offer the ideal way of backing up photos and data whereas removable hard drive (which you must not keep plugged into your computer all the time!) allow you to back-up and restore files quickly.
If you are a Windows 10 user, Microsoft has drawn up a guide for how to back up your machine and it can be found here.
Step. 3 – Always Update Windows Whenever Possible
Computer viruses such as Malware and Ransomware rely on exploiting loopholes in outdated software to infect computers. Therefore it is absolutely essential that you ensure all Windows updates are implemented at the earliest possible opportunity.
If you are currently using Windows 10, the operating system should be automatically set to update itself. However, if you are using an older version, the default setting may well be for manual updates. If you use an older OS, you can find instructions on how to switch on automatic updates here.
Step. 4 – Update Your Browser & Block Pop-Ups
Malware will try to exploit any weakness it can find to infect your computer. Blocking pop-ups and updating your internet browser regularly can significantly reduce the risk of being infected.
Top Tip – Whilst commonly used browsers such as Firefox and Chrome will update themselves automatically, it is still important to restart your browser every so often to make sure any recently installed updates are utilised.
Step. 5 – Online Activity To Be Aware Of
Cybercriminals often use online chats, forums and apps to try and spread Malware. These often take the form of emergency messages.
As a general rule, Microsoft says, ‘Don’t click on a link on a webpage, in an email, or in a chat message unless you absolutely trust the page or sender.
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