About malware

The term "malware" covers all sorts of malicious software designed to harm a computer or network. Malware can be installed on your machine without your knowledge, often through deceptive links or downloads posing as something desirable.

Think before you click
Be careful what you click and download.
Clicking unfamiliar links can expose you to malicious software and websites. This software could contain programs that scan your computer or track what keys you type, including your password. Only download from sources you trust, and hover over links to check the address before you click. When in doubt, use trusted bookmarks for important sites.

How can malware affect my computer?
Once a computer has been compromised by malware, cyber criminals can attempt to access your personal information by logging your keystrokes or monitoring your computer’s activity. Your computer could also be controlled to visit websites or perform other actions without your knowledge. The effects of malware range from brief annoyance to computer crashes and identity theft.

Kinds of malware include (but are not limited to):

  • Viruses
  • Worms
  • Spyware
  • Adware
  • Trojan horses

How do I remove malware from my computer?
Malware can be tough to remove, and no single program is guaranteed to catch and clean up everything. There are a variety of programs that can help, though. For instance, Google Pack bundles useful software together, including a free virus scanner.

Here are some other suggestions, although we can't guarantee their effectiveness:

How do I avoid malware?
You can avoid most types of malware by practicing smart online behavior. The following tips will help you to recognize malware and prevent it from compromising your computer and online accounts.

Websites: Be suspicious of unfamiliar sites. When in doubt, leave the site and research the software you are being asked to install.

Emails: Don't trust anything within an email that looks suspicious. Even email from people you know can contain malware links or attachments if their account has been compromised. Be careful when following any link you receive in an email. When possible, visit websites by entering the address directly in your browser.

Other software: Some programs bundle malware or other deceptive Internet software as a part of their installation process. When installing software, pay close attention to the message boxes and scan the fine print. Be knowledgeable about any piece of software you install on your computer. Cancel the installation if you believe it may be harmful.

Physical media: Your friends, family, or coworkers may give you a disc or flash drive with an infected file on it. This can be done without their knowledge. Don't assume that these files are safe. Scan them with security software before opening the files.

Pop-ups: Don't trust pop-up windows that ask you to download software. Often these pop-ups will make you believe your computer has been infected and ask you to download software in order to be safe. Close the window immediately, but make sure you don’t click inside the pop-up window.

File-sharing: Most of these sites are illegal and should be avoided. There is very little policing for malware in these types of services. Malware can be disguised as a popular movie, album, or program. You should always avoid illegal file sharing sites and software.