What´s So Malicious About Malware?

Malware is generally a type of destructive software that installs itself on a user´s computer without his knowledge or consent. Viruses, spyware, Trojans, and other programs that spoil computers and networks are just some of the applications that fit into this category. Approximately 90% of all computers that are connected to the Internet are affected by malware

Malware Infection

Malware can be introduced to your system through any of the following sources or methods:

• Free software available on the Internet is the major cause of malware infestation as it takes advantage of the free nature of the application and the innocence or naivety of the user. Hence, you should thoroughly scan the free program before installing it.


• File sharing or peer to peer software that is used to download illegal audio or video clips can also facilitate the introduction of malware to your system.


• Some Web sites can also install malware through hidden codes while the user is busy browsing the page.


• Malicious programs can also be received through e-mails as they replicate themselves and use the person’s friends list to infect other PCs.

Am I Infected?

Your computer is most likely infected by malware:

• When it becomes very slow in performing its operations.


• When it becomes very unstable and crashes often.


• When undesirable pop ups appear even whenever you´re online or otherwise


• When your browser´s settings, such as its privacy and security settings, have been changed without your knowledge or consent.

Clean Malware - Shield and Sword

Malware is easily acquired but difficult to remove. They hide themselves in many locations inside the system and multiply or spread from those places. The difficulty of their removal lies in their capability to reinstall themselves. However, they can be effectively removed with the help of a good malware removal tool. For optimum results, you should empty your PC’s temporary and browser folders. Uninstall the infected applications before running the malware removal program.

The best way to fight malware infection is prevention. This can be done by installing an antivirus software and running other tools that cater to the removal of malicious programs. There are also other steps by which you could ensure that your PC is free from unwanted software, such as:

• Using a firewall that acts as your first line of defense against these malicious software that are constantly trying to access your system. It is an inexpensive remedy and notifies you instantly if an unauthorized user is trying to access your computer. It also provides you with varying options with regard to the different security levels that you may want to set or implement, depending on the Web site that you’re accessing.


• Using reputable antivirus software to prevent your system from contracting any malicious software. Keep it up to date on a regular basis as new virus programs are written everyday.


• Keeping your operating system updated and patched to cover loopholes that could be exploited by malicious software.

Of course, the first and best defense against malware is you. Always be cautious whenever you´re surfing the Internet.

Still not concerned about malware? You should be! According to an article released in ITPRO News, Malware is more compatible with Vista than anti-malware products.

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