Besides being aware of how pop-up scams, malware and phishing emails threaten your computer, the best thing you can do is add good protection software to your computer to prevent the ‘bad actors’ from getting in.
Anti-Malware Software
The most prevalent type of threat to your computer is a form of virus known as Malware (malicious software). Malware can be picked up from websites, email attachments, or social media sites like Facebook. Malware is designed to snoop around your computer, looking to steal identity or financial information in your files. You may not even be aware that you have malware; the only symptom may be that your computer runs slower.
A robust anti-malware software application can stop malware invasions by scanning new files as they are downloaded and blocking them from running and doing any damage. Regular scans can be set up to periodically check for malware on your computer.
I recommend Emsisoft Anti-malware because it effectively blocks 98% of all malware and viruses at an affordable price. Other well-known anti-virus programs only stop 72%! My clients who have Emsisoft installed on their computers no longer have any malware on their computers.
In fact, several times a week, one client’s computer was plagued by fraudulent search pages covering up her email page. After installing Emsisoft, this never happened again!
Adware Blocker
Pop-up scams enter your computer via advertisements that redirect your web page to the scammers’ scary pop-up. Your mouse may lock up; your computer may beep or talk to you. The pop-up directs you to call ‘Windows tech support’ immediately to fix a virus and informs you that you will lose all your files if you turn off your computer. If you fall for his scam and call them, they tell you how to let them into your computer, download their malware and backdoor, and ask for your credit card or checking account payment of $1199 or $599 or $299 for their support. This fraudulent activity steals your financial information and provides no service to clean up a fake virus!
A robust ad blocker can stop those redirected pop-up scams in their tracks. I recommend Malwarebytes Browser Guard, an extension added to each of your browsers.
I used to receive 20 calls every month from clients who had fallen victim to this ‘fake tech support scam’. In fact, one client gave a scammer $299 and the routing and account number to her checking account. After installing the Browser Guard on most of my client’s computers, I now may get only one call every few months for this type of problem.
Contact us at 239-567-0104 to install Emsisoft Anti-malware and Malwarebytes Browser Guard protection software, join our Loving Your Computer training, get advice about replacing an older computer, selecting and installing a new computer, or schedule computer and printer help.
I believe in making your computers easier and safer to use at an affordable price. Thank you for trusting me to keep your computers healthy. Be well.
By Linda Lindquist, October 28, 2024