When we browse the Internet we can be victims of many types of threats. There are many varieties of malware that can compromise the proper functioning of our systems. Luckily we also have tools and methods to protect ourselves and prevent them from entering our devices. Now, if we talk about one of the most present threats and that has also increased in recent times, that is adware . Especially it is very present in Windows and therefore affects its users. We are going to give a series of tips to protect ourselves and that does not affect us.
The adware problem in Windows
Windows 10 is today the operating system most used by users. This logically makes hackers put their sights here. They create malware oriented to this operating system and different threats that can be exploited. That is why users of Microsoft operating systems have to put more effort into their security.
If we talk about adware it is very present in Windows. In fact, if we echo a report recently submitted by the computer security firm Devcon , 61% of all adware currently focuses on Windows. This means that almost two out of three infections by this means affect users of this operating system.
Without a doubt, we are facing an important problem that should not be overlooked. Very dangerous threats that compromise our equipment can arrive through adware. The theft of information and data, for example, is just an example. It is also possible that they infect us with malware capable of stealing our passwords or even deploying ransomware and encrypting our files.
In short, adware is a threat that can sometimes be identified as harmless or less dangerous than other varieties, but if it is exploited it could pose a significant danger to our equipment.
How to protect us from adware
Luckily we can protect ourselves from this threat. We have at our disposal a series of tools and techniques that we can use. We are going to mention some of the most important ones and that we must put into practice to avoid problems that affect our devices.
Download only from reliable sources
Something very important not only to avoid adware but also for any other threat is to download only from reliable sources . In many cases the software we install may have built-in adware. This usually occurs when we download an application from third-party sites and may have been maliciously modified.
This must be applied regardless of the operating system we are using or the type of device. It is vital that we always download from official pages and platforms.
Use security tools
We must also have security tools on our equipment. It is an important barrier to prevent very varied attacks and malware entry. A good antivirus can avoid problems.
Again, keep in mind that no operating system or device is 100% secure. In any case you always have to have security tools.
Common sense when browsing
Of course common sense is vital. In many cases the adware comes when browsing the Internet. Sometimes they tell us that we must update the browser for a failure or even tell us that our computer has viruses and that we have to install an add-on. We are facing methods they use to deceive. We must always use common sense and avoid falling into these types of traps.
Keep systems and applications updated
We must always have updated systems . Sometimes vulnerabilities arise that can be exploited by hackers to carry out their threats. We need to have the latest patches and updates to avoid being victims of these problems.
Monitor the add-ons we install
Finally, something that must always be present is the care when choosing accessories . It is true that browsers allow you to add very interesting extensions that can help us in our day to day. However, this is where many of the threats that compromise our systems are concentrated.
