Do you think about switching to another operating system sometimes? Have you considered getting a Mac but the price to switch for new hardware isn’t in the budget? These questions are coming up in the minds of computer users who are using the Windows operating system, such as Windows XP or Windows Vista. With the current threat of malware or scareware (a virus or trojan horse type of program with malicious intent) on the Internet and the sheer number of Windows computers connecting, it is no wonder the cyber criminals are attacking this group of users.
What is the average computer user to do in this situation? One step is to always keep antivirus and anti-malware software running and updated. But this isn’t always a solution since the cyber criminals are constantly trying to stay one step ahead. In addition to keeping your antivirus and anti-malware software updated, you still need to stay current with security updates from Microsoft and all the software vendors loaded on your computer. This can seem like a pretty daunting task until you break it down into its individual tasks.
The first step is to make sure your antivirus and security software packages are updated. The easiest way to do this is to ensure they are set to download and install automatically. In most security suites and individual software packages there will be a control center. The control center is where you will adjust these settings. Remember that if it is set to download and install in the middle of the night, the computer must be on or set to resume upon next use. Often these settings are set for the least used hours of the day or night.
Step two is to set Windows to download and install all security software fixes or hot patches. In Windows XP you set this in the Control Panel through Automatic Updates. Microsoft recommends choosing the Automatic Setting. In Windows Vista select the Start Button, then All Programs, then Windows Update. You then select Change Settings. Microsoft recommends setting this to Use Recommended Settings or the Install Important Updates Only.
Article comments
1 - Mark Buckingham
Nice job. I also recommend AntiMalwareBytes.org's Anti-Malware program, Spybot Search and Destroy, Avast! antivirus, and SuperAntiSpyware, all of which have served me well in the past and continue to do so.
2 - jraz
I couldn't agree with you more. I carry those tools as well. My focus was strictly on the education portion this time. All to often I see these on systems and most of them could be avoided. Thanks for the comments.
3 - Brian aka Guppusmaximus
As you said yourself,"But this[updating anti-virus/anti-malware software] isn’t always a solution since the cyber criminals are constantly trying to stay one step ahead."
So,how can you say that Spybot: Search & Destroy is an easily avoided tool? This application is necessary to wipe out the malware,spyware,adware & hijackers that all of your Anti-virus programs miss. This program is a must in my book even for "clean" systems.
Secondly, for educational purposes, you should have discussed internet applications and how browsers like Firefox with its free add-ons(NoScript,AdBlock Plus,Better Privacy,Greasemonkey) are roughly 95% effective.
Sorry, I just sick of reading articles that insist that people should get educated about these issues & protection when they could have covered more information themselves instead of leaving space for sensationalism.
4 - Jraz
I want to point out that I never discredit any antivirus or anti-malware tools. This just wasn't the focus here but maybe for a future post.
I definitely agree with you on the Firefox add-on programs. However if the users do not get the basics of how the cybercriminals are deploying the Malware, these tools are not as effective. For example, it would very easy to set a site as trusted and this could lead to an open door for infection. In my opinion defense starts with my computer and keeping as many holes plugged as possible.
Of course once someone educates themselves these tools become very powerful in the fight against Malware of all types.
5 - Mark Buckingham
You're always open to doing a follow-up piece for more advanced solutions involving not only more programs and browser add-ons, but also browsing habits, when to be suspicious, checking URLs before logging into any site, and so on.
However, while Brian may be tired of introductory pieces on the topic, I do agree that there are a lot of basic users out there who are absolutely clueless, and need a simplified introduction to make computer security not seem like a daunting, insurmountable task, best approached by plugging ears, closing eyes, and yelling "laalaalaa". :)
6 - Jraz
I really wanted to target the neophyte user since, in my opinion, they are what the Malware is really shooting for, the unsuspecting users. With a little encouragment and education, people can defend what's rightfully theirs. I have written a follow-up and plan to do more. This topic really needs exposure in all levels from beginner to advanced. Thanks for the comments.
7 - Jeanne Browne
As an eternal computer neophyte, I really appreciate this information and advice. Thank you!
8 - Sisyphus
I use Avira Antivir. It's free and works on my x64 system. Also it provides real time protection. Also would recommend the firefox add-on Web of Trust.
9 - jraz
Thanks for sharing the comments on Avira. I have used that tool as well. It did get high marks in detection ratings enough to give me confidence that I setup my Mom's computer with it. So far her machine has remained clean. (knocks on wood)