Malware is an uninvited visitor to your computer. It is software from a third party that finds its way into insecure computers with the intention of gathering private information and doing harm.

Malware can show up as pop-up advertising online.  The pop-up turns into spyware on your computer. This is how it works. You go to a site, like Amazon, and then you go to Facebook or another site, like MSN and an ad for Amazon shows up. Often it’s an ad for the product you were just looking at on Amazon. It’s really uncomfortable to see that. It’s important to find block ads like this from showing up on your computer.

Malware can get a hold of your passwords and data on your computer, making it extremely dangerous.

Malware can also give your computer a virus, which is just like when people get a virus! It can make your computer slow down or crash and these viruses can be spread from computers that find their way into your computer.

Malware also includes spyware that gathers information from your computer and sends it back to the hacking party, which is a breach of security in your computer and your private information.

Malware also includes browser hijacking software that gets into your computer via your homepage and other parts of your computer and internet setting to put ads on your pages. This is all intended to gather information from your computer and redirect it to hackers.

Malware writers are sneaky and experienced in finding their way into your computer in various forms as described above. Malware is hard to get out of your computer so it’s best to provide your computer with layers of security to prevent any type of malware from ever getting in!

Besides setting up security protection system on your computer, use common sense when you are online. Don’t go to websites that could be unsafe. Don’t click on links that are sent to you from unknown senders.

For more information on setting up security systems on your computer, call or contact Alpha Engineering Associates today at 410-295-9500.