Malware has been a persistent problem since the earliest days of the internet, growing more sophisticated and dangerous with each passing year. While some forms of malware are merely inconvenient, others can pose serious threats to your personal security. Thankfully, reviewing your internet services and learning more about malware in the guide below will keep your information safe. 

What Is Malware?

Malicious software, or malware, is a broad term referring to any software designed to steal data, damage electronic devices, or disrupt networks or internet services. Cybercriminals and hackers usually use malware to steal personal data for identity theft, infect computers to mine cryptocurrency, or steal financial information. More complicated programs may even be used by governments or criminal organizations to disrupt sensitive networks or launch coordinated denial-of-service attacks.

Computer viruses are well-known types of malware that are concealed in clean programs and can delete or corrupt important files. Trojans are also common programs designed to look like legitimate software that will create vulnerabilities in a network for other malware programs to exploit. 

Spyware programs will run in the background and collect your data without your knowledge, including credit card numbers, passwords, and personal information. Ransomware uses a more direct approach, locking your files and demanding a ransom to unlock them. Other types of malware include worms, botnets, and adware.

How Can You Protect Yourself?

While malware designers are increasingly inventive when it comes to stealing your data, there are several ways to protect your home computers. The best way to protect yourself from malware is to keep the operating system and other software updated. Hackers and cybercriminals look for exploitable vulnerabilities in older versions of software, so schedule updates as soon as they’re available for protection. 

It’s also recommended to install reliable antivirus and malware protection, which will safeguard your data from malicious programs. While malware can still get through protective software, full security suites include applications that can contain any malware which does install itself. 

Finally, adopting safe internet behaviors will help you stay safe. Avoid social engineering attempts, such as avoiding unexpected alerts, sudden emails or messages from unknown sources, or tempting offers that ask for passwords and banking information. Don’t download attachments from unknown sources, and don’t click on pop-ups, as these are often used as gateways for harmful software.

If you’re interested in reliable home internet services, turn to WVT, serving residents in Orange County, NY, and northern New Jersey. Since 1902, these telephone and internet services providers have stayed on top of the latest trends in communications technology. Their friendly team offers a range of high-quality service options, and they’re active in the local community as members of the Chamber of Commerce, sponsoring local sports teams and institutions. Call (845) 986-8080 to discuss service options, or visit them online to learn more about their offerings.