Recently, there has been an onslaught of malware infecting computers around the area.  Malware is software designed specifically to disrupt a computer system and often include Trojan horses, worms or other viruses.  The term “malware” is just an abbreviated term for malicious software.  So, the big question on our minds is what is infecting our computers and how did it get past our anti-virus software? The most common one we have been seeing is referred to as “XP Anti-Virus 2008 or XP Anti-Virus 2009”.  This software presents itself as a valid anti-spyware program and advertises itself with Trojans and other forms of malware. You will see fake security alerts and warnings on websites that say you are infected or being attacked in some way. If you click on these ads or pop-ups, it downloads the installer for the program and installs itself on your computer.  Another common way it installs itself is through a pop-up that asks you to take a survey.  Clicking anything, whether it is “Yes”, “No”, or even the red “X” that closes the window, installs the malware.  The whole purpose of this malware and many others like it is to get you to buy software to treat your “infection”.  You may also see fake warnings on pages that look like Google or an internet explorer page. All of these “warnings” should be ignored!!

Malware, like Trojans, viruses and worm infect your computer through various means, most of which are easy to prevent once you know the risks associated with certain practices. For example, e-mail is a popular way to infect your system which can be sent to you by an unknown source or by an infected friend or co-worker. Opening the email or clicking a link provided therein activates the malware. Instant messaging programs that allow files to be transferred, p2p file sharing networks, websites, and of course, floppy disks, CD-ROM’s OR DVD’s, USB drives, and memory cards can all carry viruses and malware. This particular malware infects your system by making you believe you already have a problem, and when you click on the links or the pop-ups to try to fix the issue, it downloads itself onto your computer. It is always a good idea to know your programs, and how they operate in order to prevent problems like these.

Malware is not so different than your computer viruses, Trojans and worms that we discussed in last month’s issue.  Safe internet and web practices combined with a good updated anti-virus program will help keep your computer malware free. The risks associated with recent malware attacks could be lessened and/or prevented with a little knowledge about what is out there and how it is being distributed to the masses. Protecting your computer is like protecting your bank account, your credit card and your credit report. You pay attention to the details, keep informed about the latest ways to steal your information, and then you take the proper steps to protect yourself.

It is important to understand that even the most current Anti-Virus programs have not been effective against being “infected” by some of the most current varieties of malware, because they are installed at the users’ request in most cases.  If one of these pop-ups opens and the user clicks on anything, the code begins the install.  Because the code is written in such a way that any click is interrupted as an install request, the Anti-Virus software believes that you want the program and allows the install.  Simply put, if in doubt, don’t click.  Call Biztek Connection today at (501) 542-4241 to ensure you’re protected.