Finding ways to protect your devices from malware is a key step in eradicating any chances of data loss, breaches of security and unlawful behaviour with your personal information.
When your computer is infected with malware or any sort of virus, your privacy and security are at risk.
How do I know if my computer is infected with malware?
If your computer is infected with malware, it might start behaving strangely, possibly experiencing regular pop-ups while using the device. You might also notice strange alert or notification sounds when your device is not in use. The impact that the infection places on your device is varied and while there are ways of fixing your computer or laptop, prevention is better than cure.
How can malware impact my computer?
While different viruses, malware and trojans attack computers in different ways, there are common negative impacts that you might notice in your infected computer or laptop.
1. Loss of Performance
Are you spending more of your day waiting for your computer to perform rather than getting your work done? Does it take you too long to load your browser to research a simple fact?
Your loss of performance caused by an infected computer can reduce focus, productivity and eventually tamper with your KPIs, standards and client reputation.
Speak to the experts at 4Sight to improve your computer or laptop’s performance.
2. Loss of Functionality
If your PC is not responding, fails to perform commands and loses some of its functionality, then you’re probably looking at a harsh type of malware that could bring your computer’s life to a complete standstill.
Finding ways to prevent complete loss of functionality in your computer or laptop is managed through routine check-ups for your device. Firewalls and other anti-virus systems can help to stray away from malware.
3. Negative Software Exposure
Have you ever fallen victim to negative software advertising? Well if you have, there’s no shame – the way hackers work is by blending into the crowd. They look like every other legitimate software provider, but there’s one catch – they’re not!
The best way to protect yourself from such fraudulent behaviour and manipulation is to only purchase certified software – confirm your choices by reading product reviews, user experience comments and most importantly, contact a professional to install the right tools to help you structure your workday.
4. Information Loss
If you work for a big company, you probably have some sort of protection installed in your computer that prevents you from losing data. You probably also have cloud storage that is secure and monitored by an expert.
When 4Sight manages company computers, data loss is a huge focus for our team. We understand how important certain data can be, and how dangerous it could be when in the wrong hands. Information loss is a common result of malware on your device.
Contact 4Sight today to protect your data.
5. Privacy Breach
We all know about breaches of privacy that brought down pioneers like Sony, Adobe, LinkedIn, Canva, Dubsmash, eBay, Yahoo and so many others. Now you’d think these guys have tight security measures, right?
Well of course they do, but the bigger the prize, the harder hackers work. Big companies have so much more to lose than regular Joes, but that doesn’t mean that you do not need to protect your data and privacy if you are a self-employed or freelance worker.
What kind of computer infections are there?
When dealing with the intricate world of technology, threats are everywhere and come in many shapes and forms; some of which are spread carelessly through spam email, some which entice users to download harmful software that could destroy your hard drive. Malware and spyware are two of the things you do not want on your computer… ever. Here are some types you might experience if you’ve been infected:
The most common: viruses
Viruses are transferred from machine to machine. This means that viruses are spread through links as well as uploaded and downloaded files. Viruses are spread to carelessness – sometimes users with infected computers do not know that they are spreading the virus.
The forgotten malware: worms
Worms are very similar to viruses, they infect computers and cause detrimental harm, but they do not need a user to spread. Worms can share themselves with other networks all on their own.
The hated ones: adware
Adware, spyware, ransomware – all programs designed to track your online habits and gather personal data. We’re not talking about geo-tracking here, this is all with the bad intention of gaining your data, or even worse stealing it and holding for ransom.
Best practices to prevent malware infections
While some causes of viruses are simply bad luck, there are a few precautions you can take to ensure that you do not fall into the traps hackers maliciously create. Here are some tips:
- Install an anti-virus or malware protection for efficient alerts.
- Make sure you keep your antivirus up-to-date for best results.
- Run regular scans with your antivirus system, you’ll be surprised what you find!
- Be sure to update your operating system whenever possible; this will keep things running smoothly.
- Ensure you have a secure network, especially when travelling or using public hotspots.
- Beware of links shared form users you do not recognise, these might be dangerous.
- Keep your personal information safe by installing a two-step authentication system.
- Backup your work periodically to ensure you don’t lose any data.
- Make sure to vary your passwords across portals and be certain that they are secure.
Malware is scary, but viruses, bugs and all other types of harmful infections on your computer can be prevented with the right precautions.
If you’re not quite sure where to start or prefer to consult a professional before putting your mind to rest, contact 4Sight for a consultation that could help keep your data, employees and computers safe.
Your online protection and security is our priority, and at 4Sight, we’re equipped to solve your malware problems.