6 Ways Your Computer Can Get Infected With Malware
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You’ve installed anti-virus software on all of your office computers, and you’ve secured your network. So now you’re completely safe from virus and malware infections, right?
Victoria Rausch
Owner, Davik Inc.
Well, not quite. You’ve taken some terrific, proactive steps to protect your business from cyber disaster. But there are other ways to pick up an infection, just by surfing the Web. When you talk to your employees about network safety, remind them that these practices put the entire company at risk.
Clicking links sent via email or instant messenger. This is the easiest method of distributing harmful viruses to large numbers of people. Chances are, a percentage of recipients will click on the link. Educate your employees, and instruct them to never click on links sent by strangers, or even from friends who send chain letters.
Logging into accounts via email. If you receive an email instructing you to log into an account, do not follow the link provided in the email. Instead, open a new browser window and go to the company’s website directly from there. Scammers create very realistic email messages and fake websites in order to gather your login information. One common example is receiving a message that says there is a problem with your account (this could come from a company claiming to be your bank, PayPal, Amazon, etc…). They’ll provide you with a link to easily access your account and log in. Delete these emails immediately and do not click on any of the links.
Keeping Javascript enabled by default. Cyber criminals have learned to host malware online, rather than simply sending out malicious files via email. No matter which browser you use, you could accidentally download some malware by visiting an infected website. These bugs can get in through Javascript, so enable it only on trusted sites. (This can be confusing if you do not understand Javascript so contact us if you have questions.)
Clicking on pop-ups that warn you about infections. Ironically, those pop-ups that claim your computer is infected are actually trying to infect you! Tell your employees to only follow instructions from the anti-virus or malware program installed on their computers, and to ignore all others.
Failing to update programs. When developers discover a security “hole” in their programs, they release a patch to help users stay safe. But you will remain vulnerable if those patches aren’t applied! Set all work computers to update automatically. Remind employees to allow updates from programs like Adobe, Acrobat Reader, Quicktime, and so on.
Forgetting to establish a firewall. Using the internet without a good firewall is like leaving your safe wide open with cash inside. You are inviting trouble if you do this!
Call Victoria Rausch with Davik Consulting at 888-RING-MY-TECH if you have questions or need assistance with your computer and network security.
