What is malware and how to remove good software?

Only a few years ago, computer viruses were relatively simple programs. Today, cybercriminals have a whole arsenal of sophisticated tools that can take control of our devices.

A thief in many forms

Malware, or malicious software, can appear in many different forms. The simplest viruses simply spoil the system and spread further. Spying (spyware) programs that follow every traffic on the web are much more dangerous. Banking passwords, credit card numbers and even personal data can steal.

Ransomware is the real scourge of recent years. This type of malware turns a computer into a hostage – encrypts all files and demands a ransom for unlocking them. The amounts often go to thousands of zlotys, and payment does not guarantee data recovery.

Not only the computer is threatened

Malware software has long gone beyond the world of computers. Today he attacks smartphones, tablets and even intelligent TVs or fridge. Android phones are particularly vulnerable – hackers often smuggle harmful codes in seemingly innocent applications, such as games or camera accessories.

How does malicious software penetrate our hardware?

Most often, we unknowingly open the door to burglars ourselves. Click on links in suspicious e-mails or SMSs, download pirate movies and games, install applications from uncertain sources. Sometimes malware comes through infected ads on legal pages – this is the so -called malvertising.

First warning signals

Malware software often tries to hide, but always leaves traces. The computer suddenly starts to work slowly? The battery on the phone is unloading at an express pace? Or maybe the browser opens strange pages itself? These are the first alarm bells.

Particularly suspicious should be:

• Unknown programs appearing in the system
• Antivirus automatically turning off
• Mysterious processor power processes
• Unusual error notifications
• Strange transactions on a bank account

How to save ourselves when we know we have a virus?

If you suspect infection, act quickly. Disconnect the device from the network first – This will stop the malware from sending your data and spread further. Then run the system in emergency mode and conduct a thorough scan with a proven anti -virus program.

If you detect a ransomware, do not pay the ransom! This often does not give any guarantee of recovery of files. If possible, it is better to restore the system from a backup and report the case to the police.

In the case of phones The situation is slightly different than with computers. If the suspicious application is found, it should be uninstalled. When this does not help, the last resort is to restore factory settings. Remember, however, that this will lose all data, so take a backup of photos and other important files in advance.

How to protect yourself from the virus?

Effective protection does not require much. Just a few simple rules:

• Update the system and programs – safety patches are issued for a reason
• Install a good antivirus – this is your first defense line
• Make backups of important files
• Do not open the attachments from unknown broadcasters
• Check reviews about applications before installing them
• Use strong slogans and two -component authentication