Viruses are running rampant across the Internet.  We are constantly getting customers’ computers infected with viruses, malware, adware, spyware and rogue “antivirus” programs that have been downloaded accidentally from otherwise safe websites.  Sometimes, these rouge programs even download and installed themselves onto the computer without prompt or warning.  These programs tell the users that their computer is “infected” by hundreds of dangerous viruses and offer to remove these viruses for them once a credit number had been entered.  On several occasions customers have even entered personal credit card and banking information into these programs thinking the protection offered is legitimate.  These rouge antivirus programs will slow your computer down and can even prevent you from connecting to the internet or running programs.  Cyber criminals are making fortunes off of credit card and banking information stolen through these programs.  No antivirus program is going to protect you from 100% of infections, but you can take steps to stay safe while browsing the internet.

Here are some tips on staying safe on the internet:

• Keep your virus protection updated, and run thorough scans at least once a month.
• Don’t open or download email with attachments from people you don’t know.
• NEVER enter personal information into a program you didn’t purposefully download and install.
• For back-up protection, run adware, spyware and malware scans at least once a month.
• Keep important files backed up so in case of an infection you don’t have to worry.
• Don’t download programs that promise to fix driver or registry errors, unless you know they are safe.
• Don’t use Limewire or other free file sharing programs to download stuff.  Not only can you get virus infections, you may also join a growing list of “pirates” facing fines and jail time worldwide.
• Don’t install a bunch of toolbars on your internet browser, often these toolbars contain backdoors for viruses, or they are spy ware in themselves.
• Use Mozilla Firefox or Google Chrome as your web browser; Internet Explorer is generally a less secure browser.

Useful links:

Malwarebytes — Excellent for removing viruses, malware, and spyware!

Adaware — A great program for checking for adware infections.

**New Product** avast! Professional Antivirus! — Complete virus protection for your computer that won’t slow it down! A free limited version for home use is available here.

Mozy Online Backup — Keeping your important files, such as business documents and family pictures, backed up is critically important, inexpensive, and completely secure.  Give the one month free trial a shot!