How to boost your malware defense and protect your PC

Build up your computer's defenses

Install antivirus and antispyware programs from a trusted source

• Never download anything in response to a warning from a program you didn't install or don't recognize that claims it will protect your PC or offers to remove viruses. It is highly likely to do the opposite.
• Get reputable anti-malware programs from a vendor you trust.
  • Windows 8 includes antivirus protection called Windows Defender. It’s turned on by default.
  • If your computer is not running Windows 8, download Microsoft Security Essentials for free.
  • Choose security software that is compatible with Windows 7, or choose an anti-malware app developed to becompatible with Windows 8 previews.

Update software regularly

Cybercriminals are endlessly inventive in their efforts to exploit vulnerabilities in software, and many software companies work tirelessly to combat these threats. That is why you should:

• Regularly install updates for all your software—antivirus and antispyware programs, browsers (like Windows Internet Explorer), operating systems (like Windows), and word processing and other programs.
• Subscribe to automatic software updates whenever they are offered—for example, you can automatically update all Microsoft software. Windows 8 and Windows 7 turn on automatic updating during installation.
• Uninstall software that you don't use. You can remove it using Windows Control Panel.

Use strong passwords and keep them secret

• Strong passwords are at least 14 characters long and include a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols. Learn more about how to create them.
• Don't share passwords with anyone.
• Don’t use the same password on all sites. If it is stolen, all the information it protects is at risk.
• Create different strong passwords for the router and the wireless key of your wireless connection at home. Find out how from the company that provides your router.
• Use our password checker.

Never turn off your firewall

A firewall puts a protective barrier between your computer and the Internet. Turning it off for even a minute increases the risk that your PC will be infected with malware.

Use flash drives cautiously

Minimize the chance that you'll infect your computer with malware:

• Don't put an unknown flash (or thumb) drive into your PC.
• Hold down the SHIFT key when you insert the drive into your computer. If you forget to do this, click  in the upper-right corner to close any flash drive-related pop-up windows.
• Don't open any files on your drive that you have not expected to see.

Don't be tricked into downloading malware

Instead, follow this advice:

• •Be very cautious about opening an attachment or clicking a link in an email, instant message, or post on social networks (like Facebook)—even if you know the sender. Call to ask if a friend sent it; if not, delete it or close the IM window.
• Avoid clicking Agree, OK, or I accept in banner ads, in unexpected pop-up windows with warnings or offers to remove spyware or viruses, or on websites that may not seem legitimate.
  • Instead, press CTRL + F4 on your keyboard to close the window.
  • If the window doesn't close, press ALT + F4 on your keyboard to close the browser. If asked, close all tabs and don’t save any tabs for the next time you start the browser.
• Only download software from websites you trust. Be cautious of "free" offers of music, games, videos, and the like. They are notorious for including malware in the download.
• Take advantage of technology—such as Windows SmartScreen in Windows 8—designed to help protect you fromphishing scams and new malware that your anti-malware software hasn't detected yet.