Tips For Preventing Computer Viruses And Other Malware

Malware is a term describing any software or code type that is malicious. Should any computer be infected with viruses or malware, it can jeopardize its system security together with harming its functioning. It is therefore important to take the proper measures for reducing the chances of infection. Here are some 5 Important Tips for Preventing Viruses and Other Malware in a way that keeps a computer safe.

Preventing Viruses and Other Malware

Installation of Quality Antivirus Programs

Programs such as Microsoft Security Essentials, AVG and Norton are trusted when it comes to protecting computers from worms, viruses and Trojan horses. Together with the initial installation, a computer owner should look for anti-virus updates for maintaining their functioning. Although certain programs are somehow expensive, when it comes to keeping a computer safe it is well worth it. By looking around, a Pc owner can sometimes find HP coupons or Newegg to use on antivirus programs in order to get considerable discounts for popular companies that have a licensing fee. As good example of the better free ones is Microsoft Security Essentials.

Caution When Downloading Software or Files

Computer users get themselves in trouble many times when downloading items such as toolbars or extra programs, which they think will enhance their PC. In reality, untrustworthy software can be full of malware capable of damaging a computer. One notorious example in bit torrents, and it should be avoided. To prevent a virus attack, one should only download software or files from trusted websites.

Caution When Opening Email Attachments from Untrustworthy Resources

Most times, attachments contained in emails from untrustworthy sources contain malware capable of overtaking a computer and causing damage. If a computer user happens to come across a file ending in .exe, he or she should be particularly cautious since they happen to be common malware programs. Such problem can be avoided by deleting any email attachments that are not from a trustworthy source or look suspicious.

ALSO READ : Malware Removal Tools To Keep Your PC Protected

Avoid Sharing USB and Using Shared Disks

Every time a computer owner uses a USB or a shared disk, it puts his or her computer at risk for infection. As soon as they double click on such a drive, there is a possibility that a virus will latch onto the computer. In case a computer owner has to use a shared disk, they should first use a single right click on such a drive and allow an anti-virus program to scan it for possible threats. By doing so, the chances of acquiring software and other malware are reduced.

Using Non-Administrator Accounts For Windows Users

This preventive measure is useful since an administrator account has an option of new software installation, capable of resulting in problems with infections. Since it is unlikely that a computer owner will have to continuously have to install new programs on a daily basis, owning a non-administrator account will reduce the chances of viruses and other malware infiltrating the PC and making damaging changes. It is worth noting that a person can install programs from a limited account, although it will provide a pop up asking for the administrator’s password before it opens.

Peter Vardy is a senior writer at Tech 234 magazine, his interest spans across several sectors that also include history, Movies and healthcare, he has written several articles on body building and vitamin deficiency