Beware of Windows Malware

You should always be on the lookout for malware when it comes to your computer. Malware can do anything from crashing your computer to logging your keystrokes in order to give hacker passwords and account information. If you’ve got a PC and are running Windows, malware that is designed specifically to target Windows may be a particular problem.

Windows Malware

Certain hackers design Windows malware that is specifically designed to exploit flaws in Windows. Researchers have uncovered numerous examples of hackers who study the Windows code, look for flaws, and create malware that will take advantage of those flaws. There has even been malware that is activated when a patch or upgrade is installed to your Windows using machine. As you might expect, with every new iteration of Windows comes a group of hackers looking for and finding new vulnerabilities to exploit.

How Windows Malware Works

Windows malware works the same way any other malware works. You download it unwittingly, perhaps through a Trojan horse that appears to be a useful or harmless application but really contains malicious code. Once in your system, it uses the vulnerability to perform whatever function it is designed for. In the case of a prankster hacker, this may simply mean crashing your computer or sending frivolous emails to everyone in your address book. In the case of a malicious hacker, this may mean gathering passwords and other key information to steal your identity or rob you.

What to Do About Windows Malware

When you are buying a new PC or upgrading your current copy of Windows, do some research to see if there are any viruses around that are specifically targeting the new Windows. Malware of this type is not always uncovered right away, so if you can, you may want to wait a few weeks after a new version of Windows comes out before upgrading. You should also check the Microsoft website regularly to see if there is any news on new malware and how to protect yourself from it. If you download an upgrade and are experiencing problems with your computer afterward, you should immediately uninstall the upgrade or restore your system to a pre-upgrade point and contact Microsoft. It can also help to check computer news websites regularly for information on new malware threats to Windows using machines.

More on Malware

Even malware that is not designed specifically to target Windows can get into your computer and do a great deal of damage. This is why it is extremely important to have top of the line antivirus software. Your antivirus software should have the most up to date virus definitions and be able to recognize new viruses and malware as they are created. The best antivirus software can identify some malware before it infects your computer, so you don’t have to worry about rooting it out of your system. If you have quality protection software and are vigilant to threats to your computer, you should be able to use your PC safely indefinitely.