How Do We Get Malware On Our Computers?
Malware is a tricky software that often invades and compromises computers without the users’ knowledge. Computers can become infected with malware in a number of ways.
When a user installs a program downloaded from an untrustworthy source, the software can be malware itself or come with malware attached. Examples include certain “free” downloads, including screensavers, search toolbars, and browser plug-ins. Peer to peer (or peer2peer) file sharing software such as LimeWire, BearShare, etc. can download shared files containing malware.
Sometimes users install what appear to be legitimate updates from reputable software vendors and end up with disguised malware on their computers. Even legitimate programs may come with malware secretly attached.
In certain cases, malware already infecting a user’s computer can install even more malware. Individuals who don’t use a quality Anti-Virus or Anti-Spyware application regularly also put themselves at risk.
Often, malware fools a user into installing it through one of many ruses mentioned above. Users can infect their own computers without even realizing they are downloading malicious software in the first place.
Part 1: Malware - What Is It?
Part 3: Malware - How Do I Avoid It?
Article Tags: malware, spyware, viruses, virus, malware removal, spyware removal, viruses removal, virus removal, computer repair
