Joseph Fisher

Don’t you hate the endless stream of software updates? Did you know that one of the most common reason people get viruses and malware is because they’re running out-of-date software? For years Linux users had software repositories where they could update everything with a single click. Now Windows users have access to a tool with similar results, called Ninite. (continue reading…)

I’ve been seeing more and more people fall victim to the fake anti-virus viruses that have exploded in popularity in the last few years. With a blending of social engineering tactics, in addition to traditional technical exploits, “scareware” viruses have seen an exceptional level of success.  Preying on users who are perhaps unaware of what (if any) anti-malware applications are installed on their systems; “scareware” viruses trick users by appearing to be legitimate anti-malware programs. (continue reading…)

Computer viruses have been a major frustration for computer users and IT staff for decades. And it’s particularly costly to business, as companies must hire IT workers to clean infected machines, absorb non-productive downtime in their employees, and possibly lose valuable data. Estimates vary widely, and it’s very hard to say what the exact cost is. But I think we can all agree that it’s an avoidable disruption. Much like your personal health, prevention is by far the most effective strategy at combating pesky computer-based critters.

Malware vs. Virus

Computer terminology is never-ending, so I’m not surprised that people are confused about what’s what. Malware is software designed to secretly access a computer system without the owner’s informed consent, while a viruses is malware that replicates. The term “malware” is an umbrella, under which the term “virus” falls. Some of the nastier programs I’ve dealt with haven’t ever tried to replicate – they only try to prey on your computer.

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