Viruses, Spyware, Trojans, ahh – the wonders of the encompassing term of Malware. Malware has become the dirty word of the Internet. We wonder what our options are everytime we fire up a Web Browser. What next?
The world of Malware changes by the second. New threats are constantly released and become near instantly available for download at a computer near you. Apple Computers, better known as Macs, once immune to the problems plaguing the PC world, now are good neighbors to their once counterparts.
The fact is, Malware affects every platform and usually every person at some point. How can we change this downward cycle? The answer lies in the ancient art of Common Sense. We need to learn a more proactive approach in our use of the Internet, and further, take steps to be proactive in the protection of our computer.
We like to call it proactive patrolling. You call it what you want.
So, now that we have argued over the name of this method – how do we enact it? Give me something tangible I can use from this rant.
Sure! Glad to! Proactive Patrolling is quite effective in keeping you safe.
Here are some items to consider and look for:
1. Chat Rooms
Chat rooms are a dying art as we move further into the world of social media. However, a good number still exist, and have become a playground for Autobots and Spammers to let you know how they are feeling – and while you’re there, maybe a click here! link just to make sure you are listening. No matter how many times it is said, when something says “click here” you don’t have to. Just the fact that they want you to by someone you don’t know and just met should sound the alarm. Be very careful when chatting, and make sure you know the person or place before clicking here or there!
2. Adult Oriented Sites
Guess what the number one area of growth is for the Internet? Yep, you guessed it. Places for those 18+ and older, the adult themed/oriented sites. No wonder the OMG of the Internet is quickly being targeted by those with ill intentions. Think of it like this, if you had a product to sell and you wanted it to reach the masses, wouldn’t you go to a big name, big box department store or website to sell it? Same concept here, in order to reach the masses and spread the attack – the Malware ends up where it can most readily be accessed.
3. Free Game Sites
Guess what the number two area of growth is for the Internet? Yep, how did you know? I figure all we must want to do is play games in some form or another. Same concept as number two here. Go for the masses. If you are going to play games online do it the trusted sources and well established sites like Yahoo, Pogo, or Candystand. Just remember those chat warnings while your there though.
4. Social Media Ads
This is a great thing for businesses trying to grow. But for consumers and users of the countless social apps out there, watch out! With people becoming clever to online fraud and tricks, the producers of such material are also doing the same. They are changing up how they deliver trouble, and ad space on popular sites is becoming an overnight sensation. Be very alert on your next tweet – or for that $1 off coupon!
5. Add Proactive Protection
The newest concept in the staying safe should have been the first one. Proactive protection for computer and networks can help deflect the many threats circling your computer ready to strike like buzzards on a roadside. Software protection is the best and most affordable way to start having some peace of mind that you are safe in your daily travels. Antivirus software is good, but consider it a reactionary solution. It starts once you have already been infected. Use of a good proactive solution helps fill the gaps that current “protection” provides. Proactive software is very new and few companies are offering it, but a little submitting on your favorite search engines should yield some good results. Software like A.M.P. or $afe $earch will help decrease your odds of the headaches from Malware.
Until next time, be proactive in your patrol and stay safe!