Keep your anti-Malware programs updated

[DeathsOverture]

Safe browsing is the single most important step to preventing an infection. Most viruses attempt to trick unsuspecting users by posing as legitimate software. Cyber criminals disguise their malicious programs as codecs, plugins, cheat software, keygens, no-cd patches, documents, media files, and more. The key is to recognize when you have ventured beyond the realm of safe browsing.

The most common malicious sites will pose as an antivirus scanner. The authors use your fear of viruses trick you into downloading their program to "remove a detected virus," when in actuality, you are downloading a virus itself. I work at the IT Help Desk at my school, and I see the "Rogue" antivirus software all the time.


My tips:

1. Practice safe browsing.
   
   • Use Mozilla Firefox & the Adblock plus plugin. The plugin blocks advertisements, which eliminates countless threats.
     
     
   • Always keep Firefox up to date.
     
     
   • Always keep your plugins up to date. That includes Java, Adobe Flash, Adblock plus, Quicktime, and any other plugins you may have installed.
     
     
   • If you are surfing and suddenly your browser is telling you that you have a virus, do not listen. Notifications should come from your installed antivirus. Do not download and run any virus removal software unless it is from a trusted source.
     
     
   • Download and install Spyware Blaster. Frequently update it. (You must manually update the free version.)
     
     
   • If a website is telling you to download a plugin, don't download it from that website. Download the plugin from the source. I.E. if lolvirus.cn is telling you to download a flash plugin, download it from adobe, not lolvirus.cn. Do not install unknown plugins from sketchy websites.
     
     
   • Don't download cheats/cracks/hacks.
     
2. Keep your Operating System and software updated. Malware can gain access to your computer through software vulnerabilities. Do not ignore updates!
   
3. Don't open attachments to emails from unknown or suspicious sources.
   
4. Don't use P2P programs like Limewire. More information here. Find a safer alternative by asking your local techie friend.
   
5. Use an Antivirus, and keep the latest definitions up to date. I have no recommendations, nor should you trust them from me. Read reviews from various sources before installing a product.
   
6. You should use a hardware firewall. Common routers implement packet filtering.
   
   • If this is not possible, use a Software firewall. Again, find reviews.
     

If you have a virus already, it's not necessarily too late. There are many security advisers on techsupportforum.com and other websites that will guide you through removal steps.

I hope this helps someone :)

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