Malware comes in all forms, but usually starts with the click of a link or attachment. It could be an email from the IRS, Post Office or UPS with an attachment, it could be a Facebook or IM link prompting you to “Check it out!”, it could be a link provided from a Google search, but whatever it is it can be avoided by taking your time. Major companies will not send you attachments, emails from acquaintances with links will generally be pretty apparent not puzzling and search engines can give you a preview of the page before you click on it. So take time to look before you click!

2. Even Mainstream Sites Are Not Safe

Malware producers are getting smarter and smarter. Some have actually paid for legitimate looking advertisements on sites owned by CNN and ESPN (to name a few). All it takes is a visit to the site to get infected. Don’t assume any site is safe; always keep your guard up if a popup looks suspicious don’t be afraid to switch your computer off rather than trying to click through their maze of deception.

3. Keep Your Computer Updated

Most malware is able to bypass security and install on your computer by using security holes in outdated software. Software you use regularly like Java, Adobe Flash, and Microsoft’s Internet Explorer are able to be taken advantage if not updated. So if prompted, update your software – or better yet have professionals keep your software updated for you.

4. Act Quickly

The biggest mistake you can make is to let your computer stay infected or to try to fix the malware yourself. Malware is usually just the start. Most malware is installed to steal personal information or extort money from you. The longer you’re infected the longer they will have to reach their goals. Malware is also complex and so are the tools to remove it. A professional can usually remove the infection with little to no effect on the system while an amateur can make it an even bigger mess.

This week we’ve stumbled across a nice little product called Office Tabs. We’ve all gotten used to tabbed browsing which helps organize multiple web pages into one screen. You can easily switch between open pages, close ones you are no longer using and open new windows quickly. Office Tabs brings this functionality to Microsoft Office products, including Word, Excel and Powerpoint.

If you are someone who works in multiple Word or Excel documents at once, this may be the perfect addition to your Office experience.

Download Office Tabs

Lee Area Networks reminds everyone to update to the newest version of Adobe Flash Player, Adobe Reader, Adobe Shockwave Player and Java Runtime Environment.

These updates can be downloaded from adobe.com and java.com respectively.

Businesses in Fort Myers, FL will find that the proactive computer support we provide, i.e. updating applications monthly and behind the scenes, helps them avoid downtime and damage inflicted by rouge programs taking advantage of security holes in these applications.

Kaspersky Threat Evolution for Q1 2011