GoDigiLife Tip#8 – Keep Viruses and Malware Away From Your Laptop/PC

Photo Courtesy of trekkyandy via Flickr Creative Commons

They say that prevention is better than cure, and for internet security, it’s easier said than done. Even with the most up-to-date firewalls and scanning software, any personal computer is still vulnerable to viruses, Trojans, and malware that endanger its users’ sensitive information. The Internet is generally a dangerous place – and there is no fail-safe way to defend a laptop or PC from malicious attacks.

These things aren’t just there to annoy you and alter some settings on your browser; they put users in considerable danger. Modern technology now allows for more sophisticated viruses capable of gathering sensitive data, destroying target folders and more. Below are some of the most proven ways to minimize the likeliness of a malware breach in your system.   

1. Disable automatic execution (autorun) function. 

Many viruses act like actual viruses – they attach themselves with healthy files into a drive where they start to install themselves. Other media connected to that system will also be affected, such as external hard drives. Because most computers have their function turned on, viruses within removable drives easily spread these malicious .exe files.

To disable the automatic functionality in Windows, follow these steps:

• Click on the Start or Windows button. 
• Type in GPEDIT.MSC in the search panel, and then press enter. 
• Enter the password for administrator confirmation, if required. Click Allow if presented with the option. 
• Look for Computer Configuration drop down, then chooseAdministrative Templates. Expand the Windows Components section and click on Autoplay Policies. 
• Head to the Details panel and tick the Turn Off Autoplay option. 
• Check ‘Enabled’ and highlight All Drives in the Turn Off Autoplay box.  

2. Invest on real-time anti-spyware and quality antivirus. 

Do not be fooled by ‘free trials’ of antivirus software. Even though they cost zilch, they will not be able to protect you from the newest forms of malicious software that plague the internet. There are many up-to-date professional level anti-spyware programs that can be purchased for under $50. A cheap price to pay considering the amount of protection you gain for a long time.

Those who are part of an internet package may opt to secure themselves with ISP security features. Mobile users are also advised to protect their devices with similarly comprehensive scanning and cleanup apps. McAfee is a great example of a PC or Android-friendly anti-spyware program. Its app version “helps protect your smartphone from malware, viruses and other digital threats including worms, key loggers, bots and unwanted apps” said on its 

3. Turn off image previous in e-mail software. 

Microsoft Outlook is notorious for being the target of many malicious viruses disguising themselves as innocent e-mails. Simply clicking on an e-mail with graphics can endanger everything on the user’s inbox. The surest way is to disable the image previous in Outlook, Thunderbird, and other similar programs.

To change the settings of Outlook 2007, follow these steps:

• Click on the Tools option. 
• Click on Trust Center and go to the Automatic Download option. 
• Tick Don’t Download Pictures Automatically In HTML E-Mail Messages or RSS.  

4. Be discerning when surfing. 

It’s a very simple tip, but many still fall prey to obviously malicious content on the internet. There are tons of web pages that cover under the guise of other services just to gather all your personal information. These are called ‘phishing sites’. If a fill-out form includes your bank details, social security number, and other similarly sensitive data, then it’s most definitely a malicious website.   

Of course, there are ways these viruses can still get to you out of your control. The general rule is – immediately close any website that you had no idea how it opened.

Today’s rampant and stealthy internet threats should be better answered with information and proactivity. How are you ensuring the safety of your laptop, PC, or mobile device? Are your security measures enough?