
Having a malware infection on your computer is not just annoying—it could also have long-term consequences for your business. Both your intellectual property and your customer data could be compromised, plus recovery is both expensive and time-consuming.
Setting up a robust, multi-pronged cybersecurity strategy is the easiest way to keep your computer system safe and free of malware. Here are five effective malware prevention tips that everyone should know.
Key Takeaways
- Malware is a category of malicious software programs that can damage your systems by stealing sensitive information, deleting files, and more.
- Security tools like firewalls, antivirus, and anti-malware software can help protect your system from malware attacks.
- These tools should be paired with regular software updates and safe browsing habits.
- A managed IT services provider can help your organization implement an effective anti-malware strategy.
1. Keep Your Software and Operating System Updated
Cybercriminals often exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software or hardware programs to launch malware attacks. For example, they might use these vulnerabilities to inject malicious code into the software program.
This code then distributes ransomware, computer viruses, or other dangerous malware programs to users without their knowledge or consent. In some cases, hackers will also exploit outdated programs to distribute adware, which results in annoying pop-up ads that can slow down your device.
Outdated programs are extremely common—one study found that 91% of commercial applications contain code that hasn’t been developed in at least two years.
To prevent malware attacks from happening, it’s essential to keep both hardware and software updated. To ensure that updates don’t disrupt your day-to-day activities, schedule time to install them in advance.
Ideally, updates and patches should be installed as soon as they are available. Today’s hackers are savvy and waste no time taking advantage of vulnerabilities right after they are identified.
If you struggle to keep up with software updates, there are many programs you can use that will send you notifications as soon as they are released, so you don’t have to search for them manually.
2. Use Strong Antivirus and Anti-Malware Software
Installing antivirus software and anti-malware tools on all your devices is essential for preventing these attacks. These tools scan your devices for signs of malware and other cyber attacks and notify you at the first sign of abnormal activity.
Many people don’t notice right away when malware makes its way onto their computer, since it operates in the background.
Antivirus and anti-malware security software helps you catch these attacks in real time to prevent long-term damage to your systems. Many anti-malware tools can even remove the malware from your device as soon as it’s detected.
Make sure to install malware protection on all of your devices, not just your computer. Many hackers will use malware attacks to target smartphones, tablets, or IoT devices.
When selecting antivirus and anti-malware software, it’s important to read reviews and select a program from a proven, reputable provider. Keep in mind that hackers are always developing new strategies and types of malware. You’ll need to find security solutions that can evolve as threats change.
3. Be Cautious With Email Attachments and Links
In many cases, malware attacks come from a phishing email. In fact, it’s estimated that over 90% of cyber attacks stem from phishing scams, making them one of the most popular strategies for today’s cyber criminals.
The hacker will send an email posing as a contact you trust, such as your bank, a retailer you shop from often, or a social media network you use. The email will often include an attachment containing the malware, or a link to a malicious website where the malware download will automatically start.
It’s important to learn the signs of a social engineering scam so you can identify and avoid them in real time. Signs that an email is a phishing scam include:
- Incorrect email address
- Poor spelling and grammar
- AI-generated
- Odd or impersonal greetings, such as “dear sir or madam”
- Urgent or alarming requests
Many email providers have features that will filter out emails containing malware or other scams. However, some emails may slip through the cracks, which is why it’s so important to be vigilant.
4. Enable a Firewall
A firewall serves as your organization’s first line of defense against malware and other cyber attacks. It scans and filters your incoming traffic, preventing ransomware attacks and other damaging malware from getting through.
For your firewall to be effective, it should be configured to your organization’s needs and security preferences. You can set filtering rules based on your security criteria and traffic patterns.
While firewalls are very effective at keeping malware out, they are not 100% foolproof and should always be paired with anti-malware software and other security tools.
5. Practice Safe Browsing
Malware downloads often start with unsecured websites. Developing safe browsing habits can help you avoid these dangerous sites and prevent malware from making its way to your computer.
Start by using a web browser with built-in security features. Many modern browsers will give you a warning when you’re about to visit an unsecured website so you can avoid it. Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, and Firefox are just a few of many browsers that offer these features.
It’s important to be cautious when visiting unfamiliar websites, even if your browser gives you the all-clear. Trust your gut when browsing—if you feel like a website might be dangerous, don’t click on any links or pop-ups, and navigate back to a safe site as quickly as possible.
In particular, avoid peer-to-peer file sharing sites, as these sites are typically riddled with malware and other security risks. One study found that 68% of downloadable responses on Limewire, a popular peer-to-peer file sharing site, contained malware. Always get new software downloads or content from its official source to avoid these dangerous files.
How Can Tech Advisors Help Your Company?
Tech Advisors is a managed IT services provider offering cybersecurity, IT support, and compliance services for small businesses. We’ll help you build systems that are safe and effective so you can focus on running your business.
To prevent malware attacks, we’ll work with you to configure a firewall and install anti-malware protection across your networks and devices. We also offer 24/7 system monitoring, employee security training, IT support services, and more to keep everything running smoothly.