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Stay Safe Against Online Threats

Malware Meets Its Match: Take advantage of Connect Wi-Fi Protector’s Defences

Staying safe online is becoming a pressing challenge, particularly with the rise of A.I. tools designed to infect your devices with malware. Malicious software (aka "malware") like viruses, worms, and spyware can wreak havoc on your devices and compromise your privacy and security online. In this article we'll break down exactly what malware is, how it can infect your computer or phone, and most importantly—how to take proactive and reactive steps when dealing with it.

Malware is a term used to describe malicious software that is designed to harm computers and computer systems. This includes the devices you may not consider as a “computer,” such as your phone, tablet, or even your security system. Malware can take many forms, including viruses, worms, Trojan horses, ransomware, and spyware. Malware can be spread through a variety of methods, including email attachments, malicious websites, and infected USB drives.

Malware can cause a variety of problems, including data loss, identity theft, and system crashes. In some cases, malware can even be used to take control of a computer or computer system remotely completely undetected.

Protecting Against Malware

There are several things that can be done to protect against malware, including:

Utilizing WCG’s Connect Wi-Fi | Protector and its built-in network security to help with prevention

Keeping software up to date to prevent known exploits from being used

Being careful about what websites you visit

Not opening email attachments from unknown senders

Using a firewall

Backing up your data regularly

Dealing with Malware Infections

If you suspect your device may be infected with malware, there are several things you can do to try to remove it, including:

Running a scan with antivirus software
Restoring your computer to a previous backup
Wiping your hard drive

If you are not sure how to remove malware, it is best to contact a professional.

Additional Tips for Staying Malware-Free

Here are some additional tips to help you avoid malware:

Be careful about what you click on. Malware can be spread through links in emails, on social media, and on websites. If you're not sure about a link, don't click on it.
Keep your software up to date. Software updates often include security patches that can help protect you from malware.
Look for bad actors. Phishing attempts will try and contact you under false pretenses and urgent requests. Stay on the lookout and remain suspicious of unfamiliar contacts.
Use a strong password. A strong password is at least 12 characters long and includes a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. If it helps, use a passphrase rather than a word.
Be careful about what you download. Only download files from trusted sources.
Use a firewall. A firewall can help protect your computer from unauthorized access.
Back up your data regularly. If your computer is infected with malware, you may need to reformat your hard drive. Backing up your data regularly will help you avoid losing important files.

By following these tips, you can remain protected from malware.

Malware can seem scary, but it doesn't have to be with the right prevention and response. Knowledge is the first step in securing your online wellbeing. Stay vigilant and alert when using the Internet and know that WCG can help keep you safe with Connect Wi-Fi | Protector!

Stay tuned for more cyber safety tips from WCG!