We recently wrote a blog about Malware is at an all time high, totaling more blocked in July than in all of 2007 according to SaaS vendor ScanSafe. Every time you turn around, there is another phishing scam, email disguised as a FedEX notification, or outlandish news headline. Of course, all of these are simply cover ups to entice unsuspecting users into compromising their computers. Even though there are a lot of fantastic (and free) tools to keep your computers malware-free, most people do not take the time or expend the effort to protect themselves.

A well trained user is unlikely to be infected by most malware as there are some very simple things you can do to avoid it.

Tips you need to follow:

  1. Always go to the source. If you see an offer that is too good to be true, than it probably is.
  2. A warning message that sets you on edge, go to a trusted source to confirm the information.
  3. If Paris Hilton tossed a midget in a bar or some guy in a third World country was offering millions to click on a link to provide details about yourself, your best move is to delete these messages and move on.
  4. No links. Don’t click on any links sent to you in an email unless the person who sent it tells you directly. In addition, when you send a link, contact the person you sent it to and let them know that you sent it.
  5. If someone you don’t know is asking you for personal information, assume that they are up to no good. If you are worried that your bank really needs to confirm information, call them. If PayPal needs to communicate with you, email them directly.