To understand what digital security is, you just have to think about antivirus software, firewalls, browser protection tools, and other online security software. Essentially, the term relates to protecting computers, servers, data, networks, mobile devices, operating systems, web browsers against malicious attacks.
Also known as cyber security, it is the tools we have available that protect our software, hardware, and data when using the internet. When online, we’re always under threat from hackers that will use any means possible to access our devices. They might want to collect our internet activity using spyware, use browser hijackers to take control of our web browsers, infect our computer with adware, steal our identities, or more.
Fortunately, software designed by companies such as https://guard.io/ gives us much-needed protection against all the above.
Types of Cyber Threats
One of the most common cyber threats is malware, malicious software created by hackers or criminals that has the sole purpose of infecting, disrupting, and damaging a computer. Hackers use a variety of methods to infect computers with malware, with the most common including getting users to click links to malware-infected websites, download fake browser extensions, or as part of any other type of download.
Making money is the primary motive for hackers using malware, but sometimes, it’s all about the damage they can cause to computers and networks.
- Virus: This is given its name due to how it spreads similarly to viruses that infect all life forms. It is a program that self-replicates itself as it moves throughout a computer file system and network.
- Adware: When adware infects your computer system, it can lead to an influx of pop-up advertisements when using a web browser.
- Spyware: This monitors and records your internet activity. They then sell this data to marketing companies. This type of malware can also steal sensitive banking information, passwords, usernames, and more.
- Ransomware: When ransomware infects your computer, it takes control of it and locks it down. Owners then receive a message demanding a ransom in return to putting the computer back the way it was.
- Trojans: A trojan is malware that tricks systems into thinking it is legitimate software.
How to Protect Against Malware
Hackers will stop at nothing to get access to our Facebook accounts, bank details, browsing history, web browsers, and whatever else they can use to make money. This means it is imperative that we take steps to prevent this from happening. Fortunately, if you’re diligent when using the internet and have effective digital security software installed, you can avoid malware and all other cyber threats.
Most computers already come with antivirus and a firewall installed, but we recommend getting additional protection as well. A browser protection tool is one great addition. It is a browser extension that protects your browser from getting infected by malware.
If you have experienced a browser hijacker before, you know it is not an enjoyable experience. It will take control of your browser and change its settings without your permission. When you use the browser, it might have a different homepage or force you to use a different search engine. Plus, when you try to visit a website, it might redirect you elsewhere. Finally, this type of infection usually includes an influx of difficult to close pop-up advertisements.
A browser protection tool will remove all malware found in your browser and prevent future malware from getting into your system. Additionally, this type of software helps to prevent the opening of dangerous websites that could infect your computer with malware.
Tips to Prevent Malware Infections
Software such as that mentioned above is important, but it is only half the battle. Malware relies on humans making bad decisions. Whether it is clicking random links or downloading software full of malware, it is usually a human error that leads to infection. Digital security software can stop much of this, but the best chance to avoid malware is to stay vigilant and educate ourselves on how malware works. Do some research before downloading random software or browser extensions, and never click links sent to you via email!