Avoid Malware And Keep Your Computer Safe

Malware is defined as any type of undesirable software that has been created to attack a PC and cause damage without the knowledge of the owner of the system. The term malware is used by computer users to describe different types of hostile programs such as virus, worms, spyware, and Trojans.

Initially, designed as pranks, over a period of time, malware programs have evolved into very sophisticated codes with huge potential to damage a computer as well as steal confidential information of the computer owner. Broadband internet access and email are one of the main reasons of this widespread problem.

Today, there are some good anti-malware programs available that can help you in keeping your computer safe. Moreover, following the tips given below will help you keep these problems at bay.

1. Keep Your Operating System Updated
   
   When you download Windows Updates, you perform one of the most important tasks to keep your computer safe from malware. Regular system updates not only help you in keeping your operating system current, but also take care of any security holes that may act as entry doors for malicious software.
   
   
2. Install a Firewall
   
   The internet not only opens opportunities for sharing information, but also opens the doors of your computer to criminals. Firewall is a critical application that shields your system from any potential threats from the outside world. These intruders can be in the form of virus, spyware or hackers.
   
   
3. Install an Anti-virus software
   
   There is no alternative to a good anti-virus software. The absence of an anti-virus software will make your PC vulnerable to viruses which, in turn, will assist malware in attacking your system. For example, errors such as the OPXPApp.exe error may generate if your PC is infected with viruses. To prevent such errors, you should ensure that your anti-virus program is scheduled to run regular full system scans to weed out these malicious infestations. You must also keep your anti-virus updated with the latest virus definitions to protect your PC against the latest threats.
   
   
4. Install an Anti-spyware
   
   While an anti-virus tool may protect a PC from viruses, your system is still susceptible to malware which may include spyware and adware programs. For example, while browsing the Internet, you may accidently download the mirar Internet toolbar, which is a troublesome spyware program. Installing a reliable anti-spyware that monitors for these malicious programs in the real-time will help you prevent them from infecting your system.
   
   
5. Remove Unwanted Programs
   
   Many malware programs exploit software you no longer use to gain access to your computer. For example, you may not be using the Nero CD burning software but may still have it on your computer. Now, if you do not update this tool, a virus written to exploit a vulnerability in the old version of the program may easily gain access to your computer. This is the reason why, you must remove nero and other programs you no longer need to keep your PC safe from malware.
   
   
6. Avoid opening Email attachments from unknown sources
   
   You can avoid potential malware infections if you are careful in opening your email attachments. Even if you know the sender, you should avoid opening emails with suspicious names or extensions, as it is possible that the sender’s system is infected and is sending emails to all the email contacts in the address book.
   
   
7. Avoid visiting dubious websites
   
   Websites with doubtful integrity or fake websites are a major cause of malware infections. According to a survey more than 5,000 new malware websites are created every day. You should try to identify whether the website could be infected and stay away if you have the slightest doubt.

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