Malware
Malware is an abbreviated term meaning “malicious software.” This is software that is specifically designed to gain access or damage a private computer system without knowledge of the owner. Malware programs are designed to steal information, send spam, and commit fraud. ​
It includes computer viruses, ransomware, worms, trojan horses, rootkits, keyloggers, dialers, spyware, adware, malicious BHOs, rogue security software and other malicious programs; the majority of active malware threats are usually worms or trojans rather than viruses.​
An infected computer might show some or all of the following symptoms.​
- Strange popups​
- Programs that you did not install, especially if they ask for credit card information​
- Slow start up speeds​
- Web traffic redirected to other places​
LIS strongly recommends taking a proactive role in protecting yourself, your files, and your computer by installing and running approved anti-malware software such as Malwarebytes.​
Additional Resources​
- Stay Safe Online: ​
- Dickinson Malware Protection:
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