Protecting your computer from viruses is paramount to making sure you don’t fall victim to cyber threats. Whether you use your computer for business, personal reasons, or both, you need antivirus software.
But why? Malware, or malicious software, can affect files on your computer or before you download them onto your computer. It is also a common strategy cybercriminals use for infecting computer systems and stealing information. The criminal tricks you into clicking a link, downloading software, or opening an attachment that looks legitimate but is malicious.
Protecting digital data is paramount to ensuring security for your clients and yourself. Stolen or corrupted data can lead to more than a headache. It can come at a great cost to your finances and/or your reputation. Fortunately, there are ways you can keep the computer and information safe, like using Rhinonetwork‘s advanced malware protection system.
What is a Cyber Threat?
The dictionary defines a cyber threat as the possibility of a malicious attempt to damage or disrupt a computer network or system.
This is when someone, often called a hacker, attempts to gain unauthorized access to a computer, a network, or a system. The hacker may try to steal sensitive data or cause some type of damage to the computer’s files.
How is Your Computer Attacked?
There are different ways your computer can be maliciously attacked. Arming yourself with the knowledge of multiple types of attacks can help you recognize them before it’s too late and the damage is done.
Malware Attacks
If you click on a malicious attachment or link, malicious software can be installed on your computer. When malware has been activated, it can cause all kinds of problems for the computer or network user.
Ransomware disables access to important network elements. Once in control of your data, hackers may hold your data for ransom. Even if you pay up, there is no guarantee your data will be given back uncompromised.
Spyware can transmit data from your computer’s hard drive to acquire information covertly.
Computer Worms are malicious software programs that replicate themselves; it uses software vulnerabilities to infect computers. A worm can be spread by phishing and can spread through mobile devices as well as computers.
Viruses are pieces of code that can damage or hijack your computer’s files. If you notice your computer performing slower, a multitude of annoying pop-ups, or some software not working at all, it may be a virus has infiltrated it. There are many types of viruses written by skilled programmers.
Phishing Attacks
There are several types of attacks that come from scammers who may appear as trustworthy sources to gain access to data on your computer. If you’ve ever had an email that was not from the company or person it appeared to be from, you’ve probably been ‘phished.’
Email phishing is the most common type of phishing. The email may have appeared to be from a reputable company, like Google or eBay, or it may look like an email from one of your contacts. Be wary of clicking on links in emails unless you are certain they are safe. To check, you can hover over the link with your mouse and find out where the link intends to take you. That is often a good way to check for validity.
Malware phishing is a cyber threat that can lock down entire systems. It works by posing as a trustworthy document that, when opened, can cause all kinds of problems.
Smishing got its name from the combination of SMS (texts) and phishing. Text messages are delivered to an unsuspecting individual from what appears to be reputable companies, like Amazon or FedEx.
While these are the most common phishing attacks, you can find out more at Microsoft.com.
Password Attacks
A password attack is when a hacker tries to steal your password. That’s why it’s so important to keep your password(s) secure. According to OneLogin, the most common form of personal and corporate data breaches are password attacks.
If you receive an email or text message saying your account has been frozen, breached, or that you’re a victim of fraud be wary. Never share your password information.
How Can You Protect Your Computer
Installing software to combat malware of all kinds on your computer is the best defense against viruses, password attacks, computer worms, etc. But how do you know where to start in your search for a solution that’s right for you?
Determine what your needs are, and then look around to see which software solution fits your needs. Features to consider include content and web search filtering, as well as firewalls.
A security appliance that is managed in the cloud will enable you to install, configure, and manage the system remotely. Installing a malware removal program and protecting your data from cyber threats will help to ensure your computer and network stays virus-free.