This Is How You Can Effectively Protect Yourself Against Hackers and Cybercriminals

The day a new malware threat first emerges is called “zero-day”. On average, it takes around 18 days from "Zero Day" until the antivirus industry has developed software as an antidote to computer pests and protection against malware, Trojans, and viruses. During this time, users cannot fully arm themselves against the new threat.

In all other cases, software solutions and certain rules of conduct offer the best possible protection to prevent malware infections. The most important tip: Up-to-date antivirus software or security suites are of maximum help in recognizing and containing dangers and not even removing Trojans to have to. In the future, too, there will be a constant head-to-head race between malware programmers and antivirus manufacturers: the cybercriminals and developers of malicious codes will not give up and will continue to try to outsmart the monitoring functions and always be one step ahead.

Eight Tips for Malware Prevention

Tip 1: Set up Antimalware Programs
It sounds banal, but it's hard to believe: As before, many computers are not yet or not sufficiently protected. The business with malware protection software is booming - in the face of old and new threats, digital data protection has never been as important as it is today. As an end-user, you can choose between free and paid anti-malware programs. Some current test results may help with the purchase decision:

·         Bootmgr

·         Focus

·         Network Winner

·         PC Magazine

An Overview of The Most Important Manufacturers of Paid Security Suites:

With professional, paid full software programs you are always on the right side when it comes to malware and virus protection. Here is an overview of providers:

Ashampoo Antivirus

AVG Antivirus

AvastPremium Antivirus

Avira Antivirus Pro

Bitdefender Internet Security

Bullguard Antivirus

DR. Web Antivirus

eScan Universal Security Suite

ESET antivirus

Protegent Free Antivirus Software

G-DATA Internet Security

Hitman Pro Antivirus

Kaspersky Antivirus

McAfee Antivirus Plus

Norton Security Antivirus

Panda Antivirus Pro

Trend Micro Internet Security

Vipre Antivirus

Webroot Antivirus

 

Tip 2: Install a Firewall.
A firewall program is usually an integrated part of a security suite ( see tip 1 )

Tip 3: Allow Regular, Automatic Security Updates.
Even if it's annoying, antivirus programs and firewalls are useless without regular updates. The attackers recognize security gaps and exploit them. Regular updates should also be standard for operating systems, browsers, and plug-ins & add-ons!

Tip 4: Make Backup Copies of The Security Software On CD or DVD.
Many malware programs nowadays are designed to manipulate virus scanners. The result: the programs no longer update their virus signatures. Experts recommend copying security software from an uninfected computer to removable media, such as a bootable CD, and thus continuously checking your own computer.

Tip 5: Be Careful when Opening E-Mails, Downloading, and Surfing.
Download files and programs only via secure, reputable portals and connections. Do not open email attachments from unknown senders. General: Don't click on anything that you don't know. This not only protects yourself but also prevents other people's computers from being damaged afterward.

Tip 6: Remove Unknown Toolbars.
Most browsers allow all installed toolbars to be displayed. Toolbars that are not needed should definitely be removed. Remove any that you don't necessarily want to keep. If a suspicious toolbar is not displayed or it cannot be deleted, the Internet browser should be reset to the basic standard. You can use toolbars to catch adware and spyware.

Tip 7: Only Download Updates from The Original Manufacturer.
Never follow a link when you receive a request to update your software. Always download the update from the manufacturer's website.

Tip 8: Protect Router and WLAN with A Password.
To do this, simply follow the instructions of the Internet provider or router manufacturer and choose your own secure password for protection. This means that hackers cannot access your router and, if necessary, change settings or spy on online activities. Home networks should be protected with the WPA2 setting.