malware Archives - Page 21 of 27

How to avoid installing extra unwanted ‘add-on’ programs when downloading free software

Posted on August 7, 2015

microsoft-windows Regular readers of RicksDailyTips know that I’m a huge fan of free software. If I run across a freeware program that looks interesting and useful, I’ll often download and install it, try it out, then tell you readers about it if it appears to be worthwhile.

One thing that I learned early on is to be wary about downloading and installing extra add-ons that are often bundled with free software downloads. Most free download sites earn money by helping distribute third-party programs that most people don’t want or need.

If you aren’t careful you’ll quickly find your web browser and your computer collapsing under the weight of a dozen different add-on programs that you never even realized you had downloaded! And these unwanted programs are responsible for countless trips to the PC repair shop year after year!

There are a couple of things you need to watch out for when downloading and installing free software. First, we’ll cover the download part… [Read more…]

Scam Alert: Beware the nasty new PolloCrypt Ransomeware Virus

Posted on May 22, 2015

scam A new virus called PolloCrypt is making the rounds, and it’s a bad one.

PolloCrypt silently encrypts all the data on your hard drive, then demands that you pay a “ransom” of several hundred dollars to a group of hackers before they will decrypt your files so you can regain access to them.

“Ransomware” of this type certainly isn’t new, but this one is the latest strain of it to hit the streets so you need to be especially wary of it.

It has been reported that the hackers often fail to decrypt a victim’s files even after the ransom has been paid, so it’s wise to avoid getting the virus in the first place if at all possible.

Here are a few things you can do to protect yourself against the nasty PolloCrypt Ransomware Virus: [Read more…]

Bitdefender’s free Adware Removal Tool offers extra protection against malware

Posted on March 26, 2015

Running a good full-time anti-malware program such as Avast is a must for keeping your PC safe from malware in today’s world, but even the best of these programs will miss a threat on occasion.

That’s why it’s so important to make regular use of on-demand malware scanners as well. [Read more…]

Junkware Removal Tool – Automatically remove unwanted toolbars and other junk programs

Posted on March 21, 2015

junkware-remival-tool Toolbars are a veritable pain in the neck. Even the ones that don’t spy on your web activities, steal your personal information or hijack your web browsers slow down your system to a virtual snail’s pace.

Removing toolbars and other PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs) can be both tedious and frustrating, but a nifty little free download called Junkware Removal Tool scans your system and automatically removes all traces of over a dozen of the worst junkware offenders, including: [Read more…]