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4. Don’t use public wifi. Just because you can connect to the free wifi while you’re eating your bacon,
egg and cheese bagel at McDonald’s or grabbing a latte at Starbucks doesn’t mean you should. If you
can connect to the network easily, so can a hacker, and as long as you are connected, your data and
your device are at risk. If you must public wifi from time to time, try to use a device that contains as little
important information as possible. And don’t log into your bank or other sensitive websites using public
networks.

5. Keep your software updated. Your operating system and other software programs need to be kept
up to date. Many of the updates are security patches that are needed to close up known vulnerabilities
in the software. As new exploits are discovered that target weaknesses in software programs,
manufacturers work to create fixes to keep their software safe. If you don’t keep your software updated,
you run the risk of becoming a victim of a hacker who may use an exploit to take control of your computer.
Common-sense Tips for Avoiding Malware

Sometimes avoiding malware is as simple as stopping to think before you click a link or download a file.
You need to be aware of the most common risks and avoid them.

6. Be alert to e-mail risks. Worms are often transmitted through e-mail attachments. Never open an
attachment you weren’t expecting, even if you trust the sender. Some malicious programs send
messages to an infected person’s contacts to spread the infection. Phishing scams are also commonly
spread through e-mail. Scammers try to copy the e-mail style of a trusted business, such as your bank,
in order to trick you into clicking on a link in the e-mail and entering your username and password to log
into the site. If you aren’t paying attention, you might not notice that the sender’s e-mail address and the
destination website are wrong. Scammers use this technique to capture your login details so they can
access your banking or another online account.

7. Don’t download shady software. Pirated software downloads are prime sources of malware. Other
popular targets include video players and fake anti-virus programs. Never install an anti-virus or anti-
malware program from a popup ad. These ads often contain warnings that your computer has been
infected in order to scare you into downloading the software. Don’t fall for it.

8. Beware of physical media. CDs, DVDs, thumb drives, and other media that contain computer files
all have the potential of carrying viruses and other malware. Even if you got the disk from your best friend,
you need to be careful. You never know if your friend’s computer is infected. Scan the files before opening
them, or you might end up with more than you bargained for.

9. Use strong passwords. Keep your accounts safe by using strong passwords that contain an
assortment of capital and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. And never use the same password
twice. If one site is hacked, the hacker will often sell the usernames and passwords to other hackers and
if you use the same login everywhere, all of your accounts will be at risk. Use a password manager such
as LastPass to keep track of your passwords so you don’t have to remember them all.

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