Think Your Devices Are Clean? Think again.

Invisible threats pose the greatest danger to your digital security.

Malware is bad software that can hurt your computer or phone. It can also make your device run slow and steal your info. Computer Corner is here to help you spot and remove hidden malware on your devices.

What is Malware?

The word “malware” is short for “malicious software.” It is a program that tries to harm your device or data. The most common types of malware are created by hackers looking to cause trouble.

There are lots of different types of malware.

1. Viruses - which spread from device to device. They can destroy your files or make your computer run really slow.

2. Trojans - which act like they’re good programs, but they actually aren’t. They might steal your information.

3. Ransomware - which will lock your files. It will then ask you for money in exchange for your files.

   
   

Malware can creep onto your device in so many ways:

1. Downloading Bad Files - Sometimes you might download a file that has malware in it. Be careful what you click on!

2. Visiting Bad Websites - Some websites can put malware on your device when you visit them.

3. Opening Weird Emails - Hackers can send emails with malware attached. Don’t open emails from people you don’t know.

   
   

Malware can be sneaky. But there are some signs to look out for:

1. Sluggish Device - If your device is acting really slow, it may have malware.

2. Suspicious Pop-ups - Malware may be draining your battery.

3. Data Usage High - If your internet speeds seem slower or you are using more data than normal, it may be malware.

   
   

There are several ways to search for malware on your device:

1. Use Antivirus Software - Antivirus programs can scan your device for malware. They can find and remove bad software.

2. Check Your Apps - Look at all the apps on your device. Delete any that you don’t remember installing.

3. Look at Task Manager - On a computer, open Task Manager. Look for programs that use a lot of resources or have weird names.

4. Check Your Browser - Check your browser extensions. Remove any that you do not use or recognize.

   
   

If you think you have malware, don’t panic! Here is what you should do:

1. Run a Full Scan - Use your antivirus to run a full scan of your device.

2. Update Your Software - Make sure all of your programs and your operating system are current.

3. Change Your Passwords - Change the passwords to all your valuable accounts.

4. Backup Your Data - Back your important files up to a safe location, such as a cloud service.

Better not to let malware onto your device at all. Here’s how to avoid malware:

1. Keep Everything Up-to-Date - Keep your operating system and applications updated at all times.

2. Be Careful What You Click - Avoid clicking on any link or downloading a file unless you are sure it is safe.

3. Use Strongs Passwords - Make your password long and hard to guess. Use different passwords for each account.

4. Use Antivirus Software - Keep good antivirus software on your device and run scans often.

Stay Safe Online!

Malware can be scary, but you can protect yourself. Always be careful online and keep your devices safe.

At Computer Corner we offer cybersecurity services for businesses, individuals and families. Because, if you use the internet to conduct professional or personal business transactions, then you need online protection. It's that simple.

Need help with malware or want to learn more about online safety? Contact us today. We’re friendly, we're nerdy, and we're here to help!

Article used with permission from The Technology Press.