Malware is software that has the intent of doing damage to devices, data or even people. It can come in a variety of shapes and sizes including viruses and spyware.
When browsing the web or trying our new software, it can be easy for your devices to be infected with Malware if you are not careful. Make sure you're aware of all the ways Malware can be found so you know how to avoid them.
A device can be infected with Malware through several different ways. Make sure you're aware of each one to protect yourself and avoid damaging your devices.
Think before clicking on any links or attachments on emails, even from contacts you recognise. You may recieve emails that are disguised as if they are sent from a well-known company but are actually trying to target your accounts or devices.
If you are downloading a file through a file share service, think before you download. Check that the file you are downloading if from a sharer you trust and that you are downloading it through a trusted file sharing service.
Sometimes Malware can be attached to or as an extra download when installing free software. If you are installing software that is free, make sure to check that it's trusted before installing it on your devices. If you are downloading trusted software, make sure you're downloading it from the official vendor's website and to read all the details when isntalling it - don't just click 'OK'.
Just because a piece of software says it protects you, doesn't mean it actually does. A lot of software that claims to protect you may actually be doing your devices more harm than good. Make sure to research what others are saying about security software before installing it.
Sometimes websites can be hacked to infect your device with Malware through vulnerabilities or holes in installed software. Make sure any website you enter sensitive information on contains the green SSL padlock to the left of the URL.
Some removable devices such as USB Sticks can hold Malware that infects your devices when plugged in. To prevent this, only use removable devices from trusted sellers and run regular security scans on your removable devices.