Protect your computer from malware

Protecting your computer from malware requires common sense and technical tools, that is, security products and software. These days, security software consists of many different parts of which the most important are anti-virus programs and firewalls. They can be purchased as software packages or as security services from operators. In addition, it is recommended that you keep the computer operating system up to date, preferably by using automatic updates, to ensure that possible vulnerabilities can be patched as quickly as possible. Following the three basic information security rules (update your operating system, firewall and anti-virus software) is an efficient way to stay protected from malicious software.

How do I prevent malware spread through e-mail from being installed on my computer?

When you receive an e-mail that includes a file attachment, first make sure the attachment is not a program file (executable file). Program files can be recognised by how the filename ends. Typical program file suffixes include .EXE, .COM, .CMD, .SCR and .PIF. If the attachment is a program file, delete it.

The attached file can also be packed which means that the filename typically ends with .ZIP. Some malware types use packed files to distract the user, and therefore, the files must be checked for viruses before opening them. This is done by saving the file in a temporary folder and running a virus check on the file manually.

More information on e-mail and malware distribution is available here.

How do I prevent malware from downloading when I browse websites?

When you browse the Internet, some pages may include hidden malware. Once again, the basic rule for avoiding problems is using common sense: Do not visit suspicious websites.

Browsers also allow you to adjust the security settings, enabling you to determine how program code on HTML pages is run. For example, in Internet Explorer pages can be divided into so called zones.

Possible zones include, for instance, Trusted sites (websites that the user can trust to function appropriately), Restricted sites and Internet. With the zones and security settings you can define what features and operations are allowed on websites in each zone.

One useful way to prevent malware is a pop-up blocker that is included in most browsers.

How do I prevent malware from installing when I install other programs?

When you install programs from a CD, DVD or memory stick, make sure the program is from a trustworthy manufacturer. Do not install programs whose origin you are unable to verify.

• Run a free F-Secure virus check on a computer with a Windows Vista, XP or 2000 operating system