Scambook Explains to Consumer the Difference Between Antivirus and Anti-Malware Software
Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) August 27, 2013 -- Scambook, the Internet’s leading consumer advisory platform, receives a lot of complaints due to consumers’ lack of protective efforts pending antivirus and anti-malware software. In our tech savvy society, this software is what can make the difference between safety and being unprotected against cyber scams such as identity theft.
“If not fully protected, consumers are putting themselves at risk of malware that can compromise their machine and lead to identity theft,” says Scambook’s Director of Marketing, Kase Chong. "Most personal computers come with antivirus software, however, they may not be fully protected against Trojans, worms, spyware, and other malware threats."
One common misconception is understanding viruses are a type of malware and that malware is the general word used to describe any malicious code that’s designed to hurt a computer or steal information. Computer viruses are designed to replicate and spread automatically. The term became common in the 1990s but today computer viruses are often in the minority when it comes to malware.
Other types of malware includes Trojans, worms, keyloggers, adware, and spyware. Almost any antivirus software will protect you from other security threats like Trojans and worms. The wording on software boxes between “virus” and “malware” is almost always a marketing distinction and not an actual reflection of what the software will or won’t protect against.
Therefore, Scambook recommends the following tips for users to fully protect themselves and their computers.
1. Install on-access programs. These programs actively scan computers and monitor activity while users are browsing the Internet to make sure they don’t download anything malicious.
2. Install on-demand programs. In the case that on-access programs don’t catch everything, on-demand programs conduct a more thorough scan of every file on a computer.
3. Use caution while browsing. In order to be proactive against malware, users can refrain from visiting those sites that seem suspicious, especially if included as links in emails from unrecognized senders.
4. Monitor those sharing the computer. It’s important to only let trusted individuals have shared access to a computer as their browsing and downloading habits may not be as careful as the main user's habits. If sharing a computer with others, it may be worth investing in professional software options for added protection.
ABOUT SCAMBOOK
Scambook is an online complaint resolution platform dedicated to obtaining justice for victims of fraud with unprecedented speed and accuracy. By building communities and providing resources on the latest scams, Scambook arms consumers with the up-to-date information they need to stay on top of emerging schemes. Since its inception, Scambook has resolved over $10 million in reported consumer damages. For more information, visit scambook.com.
Judy Dixon, PMBC Group, +1 (310) 777-7546, [email protected]
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