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5 ways to prevent computer viruses

In the relentless battle against viruses, arm yourself with aggressive antivirus tools, fortify your defences with defiant passwords, and annihilate these digital parasites. 

Contents

Join us in this furious crusade to transform your digital realm into an impenetrable fortress. Get ready for a cyber uprising against computer viruses!

STAGE ONE

Secure Your Assets against Computer Viruses with Robust Antivirus Software

One of the first lines of defence is investing in reliable antivirus software. These programs act as virtual guardians, constantly scanning your system for potential threats and malicious software. Opt for reputable antivirus solutions with real-time protection features, regular updates, and a strong track record of detecting and eliminating a wide range of viruses. 

When choosing antivirus software, consider comprehensive options. These tools not only safeguard your device against viruses but also provide additional layers of protection, such as firewall and anti-malware features. Remember to keep your antivirus software updated regularly to ensure it remains effective against emerging threats in the ever-evolving digital landscape. 

STAGE TWO

How to Prevent Computer Viruses by Exercising Caution while Browsing

The internet is a vast treasure trove of information and entertainment, but it’s also a breeding ground for viruses and malware. To minimise the risk of infection, you and your team need to adopt safe browsing habits.

Avoid clicking on suspicious links or visiting untrustworthy websites. Stick to secure, well-known platforms for online activities, and double-check the legitimacy of websites before providing any personal information. 

Additionally, consider using browser extensions that enhance your online security.

Ad-blockers and script blockers can prevent malicious advertisements and scripts from compromising your system. Ensure that your browser is up to date, as developers regularly release security patches to address vulnerabilities that could be exploited by cyber threats. 

How to update your browser to prevent computer viruses

Google Chrome

  1. Go to Settings in the top right
  2. Click “help”
  3. Click “About Google Chrome”
  4. Update

Safari

Youll need to update your MAC OS by:

  1. Going to “System Preferences”
  2. Update your browser

Microsoft Edge

  1. Click “Settings” in the top right corner
  2. Click “help and feedback”
  3. Click “About Microsoft Edge”
  4. Update

STAGE THREE

How Ad-blockers can Prevent Computer Viruses

Consider using browser extensions that enhance your online security. Compare the best adblockers for UK businesses

Ad-blockers and script blockers can prevent malicious advertisements and scripts from compromising your system.

Ensure that your browser is up to date, as developers regularly release security patches to address vulnerabilities that could be exploited by cyber threats. 

A modern browser like Microsoft Edge comes with multiple forms of protection, such as Microsoft Defender SmartScreen, this keeps an eye out for unsecured / malicious websites, and website typo protection, which ensures that you’re typing in the correct URL instead of one that might lead to a fraudulent website.

 

STAGE FOUR

How to keep your operating system and software updated

Keeping your operating system and software up to date is crucial in fortifying your digital defences. Software developers continually release updates to patch vulnerabilities and enhance security.

Neglecting these updates leaves your system exposed to potential threats. Regularly check for updates to your operating system, antivirus software, web browsers, and other essential applications. 

Configure automatic updates whenever possible to ensure that your system remains protected without requiring constant manual intervention. This simple yet effective practice significantly reduces the risk of viruses exploiting known vulnerabilities in outdated software. Remember, a well-maintained digital fortress is less likely to fall victim to the ever-evolving tactics of cyber criminals. 

STAGE FIVE

Use Strong Passwords and Enable Two-Factor Authentication to prevent computer viruses

In the digital realm, your passwords are the keys to your entire business.

Strengthening your passwords and incorporating additional layers of security, such as two-factor authentication (2FA). 2FA adds an extra level of protection against viruses and unauthorised access.

Avoid using easily guessable passwords like “123456” or “password,” and opt for complex combinations of letters, numbers, and symbols. 

Enable 2FA whenever available, especially for crucial accounts like email, banking, and social media.

Regularly update your passwords and consider using a reliable password manager to generate and store complex passwords securely. 

STAGE SIX

Promote cyber security awareness to prevent computer viruses

The human element plays a significant role in the battle against computer viruses. Educating yourself and those around you on cyber security best practices is a powerful tool in minimising the risk to your business.

Be cautious about opening email attachments or clicking on links from unknown or suspicious sources. Cybercriminals often use phishing emails to trick users into downloading malicious content. 

If you don’t already have cyber security awareness training this is something your business needs to implement. We found that yearly cyber security training once or even twice a year was not effective enough to ensure your employees are constantly vigilant against these threats. Taking one or two days a year to train your employees not only wastes a significant amount of your employee’s time but has also been shown to be less effective than regular testing and training which causes little to no disruption to your employee’s day, and keeps them always vigilant. To read more click here.

How can I avoid computer viruses?

In conclusion, safeguarding your computer from viruses requires a multi-faceted approach. Implementing robust antivirus software, adopting safe browsing habits, keeping your software up to date, using strong passwords and 2FA, and promoting cyber security awareness collectively create a formidable defence against the threat of computer viruses.

By following these five tips, you can significantly minimise the risk of falling victim to malicious attacks and enjoy a safer and more secure digital experience.  

If you would like assistance in setting up a secure cybersecurity defence click below to book to get started.

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Anne-Marie Marketing Communications Manager

Anne-Marie Blazdell

Anne-Marie is Syn-Star’s dedicated Marketing Manager. Her drive for success is matched only by her compassion for the team. Always on hand with useful insights, she is a warm character who is valued by her department. 

Qualifications: BA (hons) Graphic Design

In-house training: HubSpot SEO, Sales, Adobe Suite

Favourite movie: Love Actually

Favourite artist: ABBA

Favourite food:  Gü Cheesecake

Contents

Anne-Marie Marketing Communications Manager

Anne-Marie Blazdell

Anne-Marie is Syn-Star’s dedicated Marketing Manager. Her drive for success is matched only by her compassion for the team. Always on hand with useful insights, she is a warm character who is valued by her department. 

Qualifications: BA (hons) Graphic Design

In-house training: HubSpot SEO, Sales, Adobe Suite

Favourite movie: Love Actually

Favourite artist: ABBA

Favourite food:  Gü Cheesecake

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