Top Ten Ways to Get Infected

Do your online habits leave you and your computer at risk?  Think again.  In today's age where new threats show themselves daily, an up to date virus scanner may not be enough.  While some of these tips seem standard for today's needs, some do not.  Not everyone necessarily knows how to disable javascript, and most people still run default security settings in their web browsers and other programs that access the internet for data.  Read About.com's article for more information:  http://antivirus.about.com/od/securitytips/tp/badsecurityhabits.htm or catch our summary and tips below the jump. 


The List from About.com:
1.)  Browsing the Web with javascript enabled by default
Disable javascript on all but your most trusted sites to prevent malicious files and code to leak through.

2.)  Using Adobe Reader/Acrobat with default settings
Even if you don't use Adobe Reader, it's presense if not secured can cause a security risk.

3.)  Clicking unsolicited links in email or IM
Even if the e-mail looks official, a link can be redirected to a malicious site.  If it is a familiar sight, manually type in the web address as opposed to using the embedded URL.

4.)  Clicking on popups that claim your computer is infected
Otherwise called "Rogue scanners," these software packages masquerade as antivirus and spyware packages.  Computer Medic recommends downloading Malwarebytes at CNet instead, or contact us for more options.

5.)  Logging in to an account from a link received in email, IM, or social networking
Similar to the links in unsolicited e-mail, many links in an even familiar looking message can be redirected.  If the site it directs to looks familiar, manually typing in the URL instead of clicking the link can save you from a lot of hassles of viruses and spyware down the road.  In fact, most of the customers we see who have a virus have received it by doing this. 

6.)  Not applying security patches for ALL programs
Every one program that is out of date can open new doors for cyber attacks.  Take a day each week to make sure your programs are up to date. 

7.)  Assuming your antivirus provides 100% protection
Even the best antivirus is never enough.  Keep it up to date, scan regularly, and know that if something still gets through, Computer Medic can help. 

8.)  Not using antivirus software
With today's technology, you need a solid antivirus.  While most new computers come with an antivirus installed, it is often not enough.  We recommend to our customers to uninstall the antivirus (usually Norton or McAfee) and switch to Avast.

9.)  Not using a firewall on your computer
Newer versions of Windows have a firewall built in, however, it is always advisable to have something more. 

10.)  Falling for phishing or other social engineering scams
Have a rich uncle in sub-saharan Africa who died and left you a fortune, only you have to send them your bank account information?  While some scams are easy to spot, many others are not.  Give links and information a second thought before using them.  Also, most web browsers now have filters built in that will verify if a secure site is indeed the site you intended to visit; verify this in the left corner of the URL, where the browser will change color, usually green or blue.