viruses - PSafe Blog

Everything You Should Know About Malware

PSafe Newsroom — Fri, 06 Jan 2017 19:00:46 +0000

Malware can initially feel like a tricky subject. What exactly is it — is it the same as a virus? You may know that malware can be dangerous, and that you’re supposed to avoid it. But how do you avoid it if you don’t know what it is?

What is Malware?

“Malware” is a term used to refer to all types of malicious software. Software is malicious if its purpose is to harm your computer or device. Different types of malware include: viruses, worms, adware, spyware, trojans, and browser hijackers, among others.

What Does Malware Do?

Essentially, malware is designed to either harm your device, steal your personal information, or to generate money. Malware may be used to disrupt a business’s functionality, or for identity theft or other illegal purposes. Different types of malware perform different tasks. Spyware, for example, is software that has been installed on your device to monitor your behavior. This monitoring could range from “innocent,” such as tracking your web history, to malicious, such as stealing your credit card information. A trojan is a program that disguises itself as a legitimate program, such as antivirus software or an app in the Play store. The trojan then installs malware onto your device. A virus, on the other hand, is a type of malware that affects how your device or computer functions. The purpose of a virus may be to corrupt all of the files on your computer so that your computer crashes. All of these examples may seek to collect or destroy data, personal information, and more.

How to Protect Your Device From Malware

Now that you understand what malware is, you can help protect your device by practicing safe online habits. Make sure that you’re aware of the latest malware and online scams so that you know what to look for. Avoid clicking on ads and pop-ups — especially ones that offer you a service or claim that you have malware installed on your device — and only download programs and files from a trusted source. In addition to that, you should always update your devices and web browsers with the latest software updates and security patches.

However, the best way to protect your devices from malware is by downloading antivirus software. Download PSafe Total Windows for your PC and DFNDR for your Android for unbeatable, 24/7 device protection against malware and other security threats. DFNDR antivirus software will ensure that your device is protected so that you can continue using the internet free of worry.

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Are Millennials’ Devices More Susceptible to Viruses?

PSafe Newsroom — Thu, 15 Dec 2016 23:00:21 +0000

You might think that the tech-savvy generations would be less susceptible to viruses and other malware — but this is simply untrue. Older generations have a bad reputation as being the target of viruses, online scams, and other types of malware. However, younger generations tend to report more experiences with viruses and online scams than older generations.

A Closer Look

Think of the stereotype of malware victims: an older person, someone like your grandfather or grandmother, who is not used to newer technology and malicious online threats. Someone who may be uneducated or unaware of safe online practices. But as mentioned, this stereotype is untrue. Malware victims are more likely to be younger and more educated. One possible explanation for this is that younger generations, such as millennials, may think they are less vulnerable to viruses and other forms of malware, and may then be less cautious while using the internet or downloading apps. Older generations are aware that they are targeted, and are thus more careful while using technology.

Another possible explanation for this is that younger generations are more likely to engage with technology than older generations. They are more likely to embrace a large volume of technology, and the newest technology. Younger generations are also more likely to own, or use, multiple devices, smart appliances, drones, and experimental technology. All of this may increase their chances of acquiring a virus or downloading malware. It has already been proven that drones and smart appliances are more vulnerable to hacking and malicious threats because they are less protected than other devices.

Further, millennials are more likely to purchase goods online — particularly goods from lesser known locations such as startup companies or online artists. Because of this, they are more likely to be scammed, because they trust online shopping more than their elders. Millennials may also download more smartphone apps than older generations, which may increase their chances of installing a malicious app onto their device.

Protect Your Device with PSafe

No matter your age, you should always be aware of the latest online scams and malware so that you can protect your devices and personal information. In addition to becoming more aware of the latest malware, practice safe online habits by downloading antivirus software. PSafe Total offers unbeatable, 24/7 antivirus protection for your smartphone: it is AV-Test certified and among the top-rated antivirus apps in the world. PSafe Total will ensure that your device is protected against all types of malware so that you can browse the internet and download apps free of worry.

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Common Viruses and How to Stop Them Before it’s Too Late

PSafe Newsroom — Fri, 07 Oct 2016 22:15:42 +0000

No matter how hard we try, our phones, tablets, and computers can become susceptible to virus infiltration. Viruses are characterized by their compromising nature; a device that comes into contact with any threat of this kind may experience slower, inhibited functions that stall usage. They can attach themselves to any external force, or even sneak into your system through a USB drive or tainted software, and it is crucial to know what can harm your hardware and software. Here are some common types of viruses and malware to watch out for, and how to handle them when they strike.

Malware
This is coined as a broader term for viruses, worms, and the like. Short for “malicious software,” Android devices are not immune to the threats they bring to a device’s capabilities. There are hundreds of viruses, each with their own unique method of entering your device. Some of the most common are simple adware and spyware pop-ups, which can be ignored but never disregarded, because it is a sign of a weakened defense against bigger dangers.

Macro Viruses
Macro viruses are inconvenient based on what they target, which includes Microsoft Word processing sites and other data sites that house personal files.

Worms
A worm’s sole purpose is to duplicate itself to the point of clogging your storage, which is not only dangerous but downright annoying. They are not harmless, but fall on the lower end of the spectrum for incriminating viruses.

Trojan
True to the tale, Trojan viruses can be difficult to spot due to their deceptive qualities. These sites may look trustworthy, but actually carry dangerous components that consumers might not catch.

How to Eliminate Threatening Viruses
As always, one of the best outlets for protection is PSafe Total and our security products. Advanced Protection will safeguard your personal files and storage, and perform scans to detect any potential threats from third party installs. Don’t forget to perform a Full AV (Anti-Virus) Scan on your mobile device if you suspect that it is being compromised by a threatening virus. Stay safe out there!

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