How To Prevent Malware - Preventative Tips So You Won't Have To Remove Malware On Your Computer

Has your computer started acting freaky lately? Are you getting error messages, is it running slow, are you getting a lot of pop-ups, spam emails, and hoaxes, are other strange happening going on? These signs all point to one thing Malware infection.

Malware comes from the words malicious and software and it is malicious software indeed. It is designed to latch onto your computer's hard drive without your knowledge let alone your consent. Commonly called a computer virus because of the damage it does when it comes through in hidden worms, viruses, crime ware, adware or Trojan horses.

Not only is this annoying but malware is now an easy and common way for criminals to get to you through the internet. According to a research report done by Global leader's F-Secure "the odds are high this year that you could become a victim of identity theft, which is one of the fastest growing crimes today in the U.S. and in Canada.

However, now that we know that it's there and what it is how do we get rid of it? The following are some DIY tips so that you can keep your computer safely away from internet predators and malware damage.

1.) Prepare a Plan... Think of how you usually use the internet. How many computers do you have access to? Or have access to you? Does each of those computers have malware protection installed? Even if it does already you may need to install more than one product just to be double sure...

2.) Arm Yourself... Be sure that your internet security software is installed correctly and is working properly. You can buy these security programs or they are also available free online so is malware removal programs if it happens...

3.) Halt Temptations... Do not fall prey to pop-up promises and claims of big prize winnings. You should not click on any pop-up unless you know specifically who and where it came from. Do not open unknown emails especially those with attachments. Be skeptical most things that are too good to be true, usually are...

4.) Fight back...If you think your computer has been infected by malware stop all your online activity at once and run a scan on your computer system. Turn off your system when not using it and back up important files and information daily just in case. Remember to change all of your passwords pretty frequently too...

5.) Turn the screw...Use a pop-up blocker and install a firewall. Download all system updates as they come in and do a scan daily. When you use a website and register on it, be sure to look for the privacy statement so that you do not receive unwanted emails and offers.

6.) Use your common sense... With all these new technological protection programs it is still possible to become infected from malware. Some can even get so deep into your computers system that you don't even know you have gotten it. When you realize it reinstall your system to an earlier time and do this each and every time you get infected from malware.