Malware attacks on unprotected businesses could go undetected for several months. Cybercriminals know that if they attack companies with no security practices, they can hijack your computer system and use it as their own malware installation base. The longer your network remains exposed, the higher your chances of becoming victims of these increasingly intelligent attacks.
Malware is the short term for “malicious software” and refers to the type of computer program intended to infect a user’s computer and cause harm to it in various ways. It comes in many forms and could attack your system in various ways, just a few of which include Trojans, viruses, spyware, and more.
Are you wondering how to protect your network using anti-malware? Read on to find out.
1. Strong Passwords
One of the easiest ways to enhance your system’s security and protect it from malware attacks is to have your employees use strong passwords and tell them to change them periodically. Tell them to set up a complex password or phrase that will make it difficult for the attacker to guess. Use alphanumeric characters and include special characters as well. Also, inform them never to write down the password on the computer or anywhere near it. If possible, adopt two-factor authentication.
Regularly updating the password can help prevent brute force attacks. It’s a trial and error method where a programmer attempts to decode the password to gain access to your computer system. Those with weak passwords are highly vulnerable to these attacks. Some hackers would use tools that will allow them to easily guess different password combinations. It takes longer but could certainly exploit those with weak passwords. Therefore, the stronger your password or phrase is, the more difficult it is for the hacker to crack it.
Also read: Who is Better For Security: VPNs vs. Firewalls vs. Antivirus
2. Anti-Virus/Spyware/Malware Software
Installing antivirus, spyware, and malware software is another way to protect your computer systems. The software usually comes free in some popular operating systems and can be used in all sorts of laptops and computers. It’s easy to install on computers, although mobile phones and tablets require a different approach.
The anti-malware software will protect your computer from malware attacks, including worms, adware, and spyware. It can scan your computer system for all sorts of malicious software that managed to attack your computer. Installing an anti-malware program is one of the best tools to protect your computer.
Depending on the software, the features of the anti-malware software will vary, but it usually comes equipped with advanced malware protection and sandboxing technology. The anti-malware program comes with more advanced features and can provide broader coverage compared to antivirus. Aside from malware attacks, it can also address other issues like spam, spyware, and other threats that an antivirus cannot handle.
3. Take Back Ups Regularly
Backing up the data on your computer is one of the best practices for keeping your system safe from cyber-attacks, especially ransomware. Ransomware is malicious software that cybercriminals use to trick users into installing the software on their computers. They would promise to restore file access in exchange for money, although there’s no guarantee that the files will be restored even if the ransom is paid.
The best defense against these ransomware attacks is having good backups for your computer files. There are many options available out there. Having good backups can help foil cybercrimes like ransomware by allowing you to restore your computer to the time before it got infected. Also, the hard drive that the hacker stole can be wiped out and replaced with your backup, and you’ll be in charge again while they get locked out.
Regularly backing up your data can benefit you in several other ways aside from protecting your files against ransomware attacks. Remember that the data on your devices could accidentally get lost, deleted, or maliciously attacked. To protect your important files, make electronic copies of them and store them safely. Always have multiple backup plans to fully secure your computer files.
4. Use a Firewall
Firewall protection is another way to keep your computer safe from malware attacks. It works by examining every electronic data that gets in and out of your computer. Having a good firewall can keep your computer protected against prying eyes. It prevents cybercriminals from accessing your laptop or computer and protects your computer against malicious “worms”.
A good firewall goes a long way to protecting you from identity thieves. These are cybercriminals who can break into computer systems and steal personal information, credit card and bank information, private files, and other important data and files. Remote thieves can even hijack your computer and plant destructive viruses in it.
Quite simply, the firewall will protect your computer from any intrusion while it’s connected to the Internet. It examines every data that gets in and out of your network and compares it with the given rules. If the information matches the rules, it will allow the files to pass. Otherwise, they get blocked. If you’re not familiar with how to operate a firewall or about the ins and outs of malware it’s worth looking into internet compliance courses that can help you get a firm handle on how to look after your work security.
Also read: Top 10 Malware Removal Software
5. Perform System Scans
Regularly scanning your computer for viruses and running antivirus software to remove any malware is one way you can protect your system from malware attacks. If the virus gets into your computer and is not removed on time, it could lead to various problems. You could also lose important data, and they could steal your identity.
As a general rule, it’s best to scan your computer system at least once a week using antivirus software. Performing a basic scan can help determine if there’s a virus in your computer. It will also provide solutions depending on the specific malware detected on your computer.
Once the scan is completed, you can remove the viruses by following the directions provided on the antivirus software. Some software automatically eliminates viruses and malware after scanning to prevent further complications. Although a weekly scan is highly recommended, it’s not always appropriate to wait for so long. If you use your computer regularly and browse the Internet several times a day, you should perform a virus scan more than once a week.
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