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Help prevent malware infection on your computer

Malware authors are always looking for new ways to infect your computer. Following the simple tips below can help you stay protected.

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Run up-to-date security software

Up-to-date security software is the best way to help protect your computer from malware.

Microsoft provides security software that is regularly updated to protect against the latest threats. Our software includes:

Whatever security software you choose, make sure you update it regularly. We recommend you update your security software at least every day.

Get the latest software updates

New malware is written every day. Many of these threats target vulnerabilities in your computer software. Software companies regularly release updates that fix these vulnerabilities.

To help stay protected you should regularly update all your software. This includes programs like Java, Adobe and QuickTime.

You can find the latest updates on the website of the company that made your software. You can find a list of links to popular software on our updates page.

You can easily keep all of your Microsoft software up-to-date by turning on Windows automatic updates. Your computer will then automatically download Microsoft security updates when your computer is online.

Understand how malware works

Malware authors use several common tricks to install their malicious software on your computer. Understanding the most common ways they do this can help you stay protected.

  • Email – Malware often arrives on your computer in an email attachment. You should never open an attachment from someone you don’t know or if an email looks suspicious. Instant messages and requests for file transfers can also spread malware.

  • Websites – Never open links to webpages that you don’t recognize or that are sent from people you don’t know. Malicious websites can install malware on your computer when you visit them.

    Use caution – If you view a website that doesn’t look quite right, or unexpected things happen when you visit, close your browser, download the latest updates for your security software and run a quick scan on your computer.

  • Pirated software – Malware is often bundled together with pirated software. When you install the pirated software you may also install malware. You can find more information on the Protect your computer from pirated software page.

  • Social engineering – Malware authors often try and trick you into doing what they want. This can be clicking or opening a file because it looks legitimate, paying money to unlock your computer or visiting a malicious webpage. These deceptive appeals are known as social engineering.

  • Passwords – Attackers may try to guess your Windows account or other passwords. This is why you should always use a password that can’t be guessed easily. A strong password has at least eight characters and includes letters, numbers, and symbols. There is more information on the Create strong passwords page.

Turn on your firewall

A firewall is a set of rules that chooses which information can access your computer. It can help prevent malware infections by stopping suspicious programs from getting onto your computer, or accessing the internet once installed.

You can find out how to turn on your firewall at the links below:

Limit user privileges

Many malware threats need full access to your computer to run properly. Windows Vista, 7 and 8 use User Account Control to limit what a program can do without your permission.

This means you will be notified if any software or application tries to make any changes to your system. It can also help stop malware and potentially unwanted software from installing themselves or changing the way your computer works.

There is more information about User Account Control at the following links:

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