Archives - Malware


If you find a USB device somewhere in public, don’t plug it into your computer

If you happen upon a USB device while out in public, such as a flash drive, do not take it home and plug it into your computer. There’s no telling what could be on the device, such as malware or ransomware. In some cases, scammers will leave USB devices in places so that they’re found […]

What is Rootkit?

A collection of software tools that enable an unauthorized user to gain remote access to a computer system without being detected. A type of malware that opens a perpetual “back door” into a computer system. Once installed, a rootkit will allow additional viruses to infect a computer as various hackers find and compromise the vulnerable […]

If someone is offering a game for free on a forum, it could contain malware

A general rule of thumb is: “If it’s free, it’s probably too good to be true.” Hackers have been lacing game files with cryptomining malware that could steal your information and affect your computer’s performance. Be sure to only download files like games from reliable sources.

Watch out for free software

Have you ever heard the adage that if you aren’t the customer, you’re the product, well maybe in the setting of a free-to-use platform like Facebook. There may be some truth to this saying. Whether it’s a desktop or mobile app that serves you aggressive ads, or a site that exploits your compute cycles for […]

Keep your eye out for Google Chrome extension malware

Extensions are great for enhancing web browsers, but they can also create security risks. For example, Google Chrome is probably just another trusted application to your operating system and antivirus software, meaning it – and its extensions – can run code without a hitch. Extensions may be malicious, though. Try looking for unusual names, obscure […]

Check to see how frequently software vendors produce updates

The more often you update the software on your computer, the better. Programs that haven’t been updated lately are easier for hackers to attack, making your whole system more vulnerable to malware. Before you download software onto your device, check with the vendor to see how often they come out with updates. Big name software […]