Tips For Virus-Free Internet Browsing

Working in the tech industry, and specifically being in the business of servicing Windows computers as well as Macs, one of the most common problems I see is this: viruses. Countless times the same scene plays out: a frazzled-looking PC user comes in, holding their laptop or desktop, and tells the sad tale of how they were using their computer when, suddenly, they were infected. This can come in many forms: endless pop-ups, fake anti-virus software telling them they need to run a “free scan”, regular program use stopped by crashing, all leading to the computer becoming slow or unusable. Sometimes, I see the same people come back again and again, with the same issue.

Malware is a very common, and nerve-wracking, issue for many PC users. But I will say that, as a PC user personally, I haven’t been infected with a virus in years. This is not because I have the most expensive anti-virus software; in fact, I just use a few free programs, updated regularly, and they are more of a backup plan in case something does go wrong. While I’ll write a bit at the end of this post about those specific programs, the real reason that I don’t worry about viruses is that I minimize the risk of encountering malware by being careful about how I browse the Internet, and the most expensive anti-virus software won’t protect better than that. Here are a few tips that I follow to keep my system clean:

SAFE BROWSING HABITS
First, internet browsing, and specifically searching and going to new and unfamiliar sites, is the main way your computer can become infected. This isn’t to say users shouldn’t find new sites and explore new things on the internet, but there are a few tip-offs that a website isn’t as legitimate as you were hoping it would be. Sites that offer free, streaming television are one of the most common culprits; if it isn’t Netflix, Hulu, Vimeo, Youtube, or a specific television network’s site, then chances are you should stay far, far away.

CAREFUL DOWNLOADING
In the same vein, a lot of sites to download software are malware traps. Whether they’re purporting to be the perfect source for free games, key generators or serials for not-so-free games, operating system drivers for a variety of different uses, or even anti-virus software, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Especially if the web address of the link you just found on your google search seems a little too close to what you looked for, and the more obscure the search, the more likely it’s going to hurt more than help. If you’re looking for a driver, stick to the manufacturer’s site.

WATCH WHERE YOU POINT
Another easy trap to fall into is clicking false links. These can appear as pop-ups, banner-ads, or even on some sites, ads that can hide themselves by looking like a legitimate link or download to the casual observer. Generally, pop-up ads should never be clicked on (no matter what “free prize” they may promise), banner ads should only be followed if you are absolutely certain you know that they’re going to a legitimate, safe site, and if you’re on an unfamiliar site pay close attention where you click.

HELPFUL PROGRAMS
In addition to safe browsing, there are some other simple things you can do to minimize your risk. Always make sure you have enabled “Automatic Updates” on your computer, and regularly check for updates you may have missed or hidden. Having the most current software means you have the most current protection. As for anti-virus software, I recommend the free program Avast, which works as both live protection as you browse, as well as the option to scan your computer when you suspect viruses. Two other programs that I use, usually to run scans concurrently, are Malwarebytes and Spybot. Both of these programs are good for when you suspect something might be wrong in your computer already, and can help clear out infections on your computer (though they aren’t preventative). However, like I said, even having Avast running constantly, and doing scans with the others regularly, the most important way to stay free of malware is by practicing safe browsing habits.