Similar Questions

• I got a phone call from microsoft that malicious software is installed on my computer

  I live in Toronto, Canada. Someone called me and told me that she calls me from Microsoft and said some malware is installed in my computer and she told me to turn on your computer and do the instruction, she tells me.  I do not trust it because it's weird to have a call from microsoft on Saturday evening at 7:00. I said what happened if I didn't, she told me that she disconnects my server computer and tell my provider to block my IP address! I asked his emp ID, name and Department she calls, it just pass the phone to his supervisor, and when I insist on my view that I'm not you trust, he told me that you don't have any technical information. and it was very very rude... Finally I hung upward and the lady called me again and gave me this info: name: Abam Sorgr, empID: 21536 Windows operation system Dept., at Montreal, Canada, she gave me her employee ID:21536, the phone, her name was 65391989 which don't belonge to the Canada. I told him I check from microsoft and you can call me tomorrow. and now I have no idea?

  These phone calls are usually of a person representing Windows rather than Microsoft, but in any case, the call was nothing else than a phishing attempt! Do not give any information.

  Reported people on these calls for a person who represents Windows (note: not Microsoft).

  It is a scam! Not to follow their instructions or advice and not to provide ANY information to them.

  Because they use the internet lines and/or phone to complete their fraud, there may be federal agencies in your country who are interested in discovering their calls (e.g. RCMP). Their report directly to the appropriate agency if you feel you can contribute to their arrest and the charges.

  Microsoft do NOT pick up the phone and start dialing customers and never phones/e-mails asking for personal information or asking them to visit a web site! Please do not take into account these calls and hang up immediately.

  On another note, if you have problems with your computer, please do not hesitate to post a description of the situation and the error messages you received in those forums. We would be happy to help you. (information staff unnecessary or requested !)

• Can I run the Microsoft Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool w / Kaspersky AntiVirus with/without any problems?

  Can I run the Microsoft Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool w / Kaspersky AntiVirus with/without any problems?

  Can I run the Microsoft Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool w / Kaspersky AntiVirus with/without any problems?

  Yes.  It is a tool on demand and not in real time thus creates no problems or conflicts with the other application in real time, including Kaspersky Antivirus.

• Receipt of phone call saying I had malicious software (Microsoft impersonation)

  Title: Funny original call

  I live in PA and received a phone call from someone who do not speak English as a first language by telling me I had malware and viruses on my computer and it was a Microsoft tech.  He asked if my computer was on... I said no... He told me to turn it on and he'll fix it.  sounded funny to me, so I asked what computer... He said mine... I said... it was still said to mine... I still once you said... which made me very suspicious.  I have 6 computers in my house... If he was from Microsoft and in fact is a problem, he could have told me that they... I hung up.  Fortunately for me, I worked on computers since 1982 and I have no banking services online for this reason and because he could not tell me that we (an error code would have given him my exact computer) and what operating system it used.

  Avoid scams that use the Microsoft name fraudulently

  Cybercriminals often include the names of well-known companies, such as ours, in their scams. They think it will convince you to give them money or your personal information. While they usually use e-mail to you wrong, that they sometimes use the phone instead.

  Common scams that use the Microsoft name

  • "You have won the Microsoft Lottery"
  • Microsoft "requires credit card information to validate your copy of Windows.
  • Microsoft sends unsolicited e-mail with attached security updates
  • A person of "Microsoft Support" calls to fix your computer

  Avoid these dangerous hoaxes

  We do not send unsolicited e-mail or make unsolicited telephone calls asking for personal information or financial or repair your computer.

  If you receive an unsolicited e-mail or phone call which is supposed to be from Microsoft, and request that you send personal information or click on the links,delete the email or hang up the phone .

  You did not win the "Microsoft Lottery".

  Microsoft customers are often the target of a scam that uses e-mail messages falsely promising money. Victims receive messages saying: 'You have won the Microsoft Lottery!' There is no Microsoft Lottery. Delete the message.

  If you have lost money to this scam, report it . You can also send the police report to Microsoft and we will use it to help law enforcement catch criminals who send these e-mails.

  For more information, see Microsoft report fraud Lottery . To protect yourself against these e-mail hoaxes, you can use the same general orientation you use to protect yourself from phishing scams to protect you from these e-mail hoaxes.

  Microsoft do not ask for credit card information to validate your copy of Windows

  We require that your copy of Windows is legitimate before you can obtain programs from the Microsoft Download Center and to receive software updates from Microsoft Update . Our online process that performs this validation is called the Genuine Advantage Program. at no time during the validation process we request your credit card information.

  In fact, we collect any information that can be used to identify you, such as your name, e-mail address or other personal information.

  For more information, read the Microsoft Genuine Advantage Privacy . To learn more about the program in general, see genuine Microsoft software .

  Microsoft sends no communication unsolicited on security updates

  When we publish information about a security software update or security incident, send us e-mail messages only to subscribers of our security communications program.

  Unfortunately, Cybercriminals have benefited from this program. They sent fake security messages that appear to come from Microsoft. Some messages to attract the recipients to Web sites to download spyware or other malicious software. Others include an attachment that contains a virus . Delete the message. Do not open the attachment.

  Legitimate security communications from Microsoft

  • Legitimate communications do not include software updates as attachments. We never attach software updates to our security communications. On the contrary, we refer customers to our Web site for more information on the update or the software security incident.
  • Legitimate communications are also on our websites. If we provide information about a security update, you can also find this information on our Web sites.

  = Microsoft has none of the unsolicited telephone calls to help you fix your computer

  In this type of scam cybercriminals are calling you and claim to be of Support technique Microsoft. They offer help with your computer problems. Once scammers have earned your trust, they try to steal and damage your computer with malicious software, including viruses and spyware.

  Although the law enforcement can trace phone numbers, often authors use pay telephones, disposable cell phones or stolen cellular phone numbers. Better avoid fooling themselves rather than try to repair the damage afterwards.

  Treat all unsolicited sceptically telephone calls. Don't provide personal information.

  ===========================================================
  If this post can help solve your problem, please click the 'Mark as answer"If you find it useful, mark it as useful by clicking the 'Useful' button at the top of this message. Marking a post as answer, or relatively useful, you help others find the answer more quickly.

• Question about the Microsoft malicious software removal tool

  Recently, I downloaded and executed the MS Malicious Software Removal Tool. He said that if it finds any infected file he would remove the. I did 2 quick scans, and twice he told them I had 3 infected files, but at the end of the scan it says no malicious software found. Anyone know anything about this?

  Hi Flamencoqueen,

  Please use the Forum for answers!

  Different security programs have different detection evaluates, performance etc.  It could be that when scanning infected files were found and removed. If you have reason to believe that the result cannot be specific, you can choose to run that more than one antivirus program on a particular system provided that they are not in conflict with one another.

  David O
  Microsoft Answers Support Engineer
  Visit our and tell us what you think.

• Microsoft made a habit of you personally call by phone and saying: you have malicious software on your computer? I have hooked up to two times more positive that it is a scam

  Microsoft made a habit of you personally call by phone and saying: you have malicious software on your computer? Whenever they asked me to go to my computer and go to the Control Panel, they will say to me then my serial number to confirm that it is legitimate, when I said I thought it was a scam, they became very angry, both times, it was a Pakistani
  I have hooked up to two times more positive that it is a scam

  Microsoft made a habit of you personally call by phone and saying: you have malicious software on your computer? Whenever they asked me to go to my computer and go to the Control Panel, they will say to me then my serial number to confirm that it is legitimate, when I said I thought it was a scam, they became very angry, both times, it was a Pakistani
  I have hooked up to two times more positive that it is a scam

  You have made the right choice.

  This is a complete scam and one that has become very common these days. Microsoft never does such calls. Don't think anything such a caller said, do nothing that he tells you to do and hang up on him immediately.

• I Virus: Win32 / Alureon.H I run full scans of the malicious software removal tool, Microsoft security essentials, and care.

  It is the only virus I have it please help I am so close to fixing my computer I managed comprehensive analyses on all programs that they detect this virus but I always eventually have and redirected to Web sites randomly please tell me if possible how do I manually remove this

  Hello

  If you need search malware here's my recommendations - they will allow you to
  scrutiny and the withdrawal without ending up with a load of spyware programs running
  resident who can cause as many questions as the malware and may be more difficult to detect as the
  cause.

  No one program cannot be used to detect and remove any malware. Added that often easy
  to detect malicious software often comes with a much harder to detect and remove the payload. Then
  its best to be thorough than paying the high price later now too. Check with them to one
  extreme overkill point and then run the cleaning only when you are sure that the system is clean.

  It can be made repeatedly in Mode safe - F8 tap that you start, however, you must also run
  the regular windows when you can.

  Download malwarebytes and scan with it, run MRT and add Prevx to be sure that he is gone.
  (If Rootkits run UnHackMe)

  Download - SAVE - go to where you put it-right on - click RUN AS ADMIN

  Malwarebytes - free
  http://www.Malwarebytes.org/

  Run the malware removal tool from Microsoft

  Start - type in the search box-> find MRT top - right on - click RUN AS ADMIN.

  You should get this tool and its updates via Windows updates - if necessary, you can
  Download it here.

  Download - SAVE - go to where you put it-right on - click RUN AS ADMIN
  (Then run MRT as shown above.)

  Microsoft Malicious - 32-bit removal tool
  http://www.Microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyId=AD724AE0-E72D-4F54-9AB3-75B8EB148356&displaylang=en

  Microsoft Malicious removal tool - 64 bit
  http://www.Microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyId=585D2BDE-367F-495e-94E7-6349F4EFFC74&displaylang=en

  also install Prevx to be sure that it is all gone.

  Download - SAVE - go to where you put it-right on - click RUN AS ADMIN

  Prevx - Home - free - small, fast, exceptional CLOUD protection, working with others
  security programs. It is a single scanner, VERY EFFICIENT, if it finds something to come back
  here or use Google to see how to remove.
  http://www.prevx.com/   <-->
  http://info.prevx.com/downloadcsi.asp  <-->

  Choice of PCmag editor - Prevx-
  http://www.PCMag.com/Article2/0, 2817,2346862,00.asp

  Try the demo version of Hitman Pro:

  Hitman Pro is a second scanner reviews, designed to save your computer from malicious software
  (viruses, Trojans, rootkits, etc.). who infected your computer despite safe
  what you have done (such as antivirus, firewall, etc.).
  http://www.SurfRight.nl/en/hitmanpro

  --------------------------------------------------------

  If necessary here are some free online scanners to help the

  http://www.eset.com/onlinescan/

  New Vista and Windows 7 version
  http://OneCare.live.com/site/en-us/Center/whatsnew.htm

  Original version
  http://OneCare.live.com/site/en-us/default.htm

  http://www.Kaspersky.com/virusscanner

  Other tests free online
  http://www.Google.com/search?hl=en&source=HP&q=antivirus+free+online+scan&AQ=f&OQ=&AQI=G1

  --------------------------------------------------------

  Also follow these steps for the General corruption of cleaning and repair/replace damaged/missing
  system files.

  Run DiskCleanup - start - all programs - Accessories - System Tools - Disk Cleanup

  Start - type this into the search-> find COMMAND to top box and RIGHT CLICK-
  RUN AS ADMIN

  Enter this at the command prompt - sfc/scannow

  How to analyze the log file entries that the Microsoft Windows Resource Checker
  (SFC.exe) program generates in Windows Vista cbs.log
  http://support.Microsoft.com/kb/928228

  Run checkdisk - schedule it to run at the next startup, then apply OK then restart your way.

  How to run the check disk at startup in Vista
  http://www.Vistax64.com/tutorials/67612-check-disk-Chkdsk.html

  -----------------------------------------------------------------------

  If we find Rootkits use this thread and other suggestions. (Run UnHackMe)

  http://social.answers.Microsoft.com/forums/en-us/InternetExplorer/thread/a8f665f0-C793-441A-a5b9-54b7e1e7a5a4/

  I hope this helps.

  Rob Brown - MS MVP - Windows Desktop Experience: Bike - Mark Twain said it right.

• How can I prevent Microsoft to install malicious software Compattelrunner.exe on my computer?

  This is the fourth time I found this malware running on my computer after deleting updates previous three officials.

  So I wrote all Windows products ugly recommendations in every venue possible (e.g. Amazon.com) and filed a complaint with the FTC. The bottom line is, in fact, that it is forbidden to install unwanted software on someone's computer, and Microsoft ignores the permission for the Automatic Updates settings. Please tell me if I need to act on this, or if the problem will stop.

  

  Here's the review I posted just for you on Amazon.

  Based on my experience with Windows 7.

  Installs malware (compattelrunner.exe, an executable file that can be supported more than 70% of your CPU) while not taking into account your update settings ("download updates, but don't ask me which install"). Reinstall this malware after you delete this review was motivated by find it on my computer for the fourth time after that I removed it three times before.

  http://searchmidmarketsecurity.TechTarget.com/definition/malware
  "Malware (for"malicious software") is a program or file that is harmful to a user of the computer." which includes Compattelrunner.exe because of its effect on the performance of the computer, even though it obviously not to damage files, hold the computer for ransom and so on.

  There is no problem with the descriptions of KB, but rather to what Windows Update said you; in other words, go to the KB page to check every update (unless it says security or Windows Defender). They actually sent a Windows Defender or other update the next day, I installed another update.

• Question on log "Microsoft Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool"

  I'm sure you can be I have no viruses etc on my PC, but the newspaper MRT (from c:\windows\debug), I have some unexplained differences, and I was hoping someone can shed some light on them.

  The log from the last two races:

  Microsoft Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool v3.14, December 2010
  Has started the game 16 dec 11:42:57 2010
  -> Scan ERROR: resources process://pid:4404 (0x00000005 (5) of the code)

  Engine internal result code = 80508015

  Summary of the results:
  ----------------
  No infections found.
  Microsoft Windows malicious software removal tool finished the game dec 16 11:43:48 2010

  Return code: 0 (0x0)

  ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

  Microsoft Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool v3.15, January 2011
  Started on Fri Jan 14 15:27:53 2011
  -> Scan ERROR: resources process://pid:4016 (0x00000005 (5) of the code)
  -> Scan ERROR: process://pid:4896 resources (code 0 x 00000490 (1168))
  -> Scan ERROR: process://pid:780 resources (code 0 x 00000490 (1168))
  -> Scan ERROR: process://pid:4056 resources (code 0 x 00000490 (1168))
  -> Scan ERROR: process://pid:4816 resources (code 0 x 00000490 (1168))

  Engine internal result code = 80508015

  Summary of the results:
  ----------------
  No infections found.
  Microsoft Windows malicious software removal tool finished on Fri Jan 14 15:28:48 2011

  Return code: 0 (0x0)

  The main applications are: 1. What are the 6 reports "--> Scan ERROR... etc... ", and what do mean?

  And 2. That means the 8050815 code?

  I have find and read some articles in the KB ( http://support.microsoft.com/kb/891717 and http://support.microsoft.com/kb/890830/ ) but they do not seem to mention the reports I receive or 80508015 code.

  I did also have a search on this site and found a few related posts but for me they did not really answer why this happened or exactly what he was wrong (if anything?). Where did this post.

  Basic System Spec

  W7 HP 64 bit. Athlon CPU quad core, 4 GB ram, 1 TB HD, ATI HD5670 GPU. Also in MSE (updated) and the weekly scans with Malwarebytes (updated).

  Hello

  Refer to this link and check if it helps:

  http://social.answers.Microsoft.com/forums/en-us/vistawu/thread/2c91523b-0d13-4408-b3d2-bb2abfc52940

  http://social.answers.Microsoft.com/forums/en-us/XPsecurity/thread/37598aa9-7d4a-4077-9b68-51aafebb59be

  It will be useful.

• Microsoft® Windows® Malicious Software Removal Tool (KB890830), has - it stopped and had to be replaced?

  I have a program that tells me that the foregoing must put up-to-date but also says, in 'the details' that it has been discontinued, 'end of life' is mentioned. I should remove it completely, and is a replacement, any help please?

  Hi, 1 thank you a lot for your responses to my query. You gave me a good lesson on the search for info according to your instructions.

  I will definitely read the links on registry cleaning etc.
  I came across another thread with the same query as mine and after reading all the reviews, I decided to do the same thing that the "asker" which was to educate Secunia PSI to ignore instructions from manual update for the original program expired. Secunia PSI shows now 100% on my programs updated and everything seems to work OK.
  I obviously confused and put in the wrong program for removal in my 1st question.

  Malicious Software Removal Tool (KB890830), it should have been, (how to remove KB833330 - Blaster, Nachi removal tool?).

  This thread is that I came across. You may find it interesting to read and will no doubt understand all my comments confused and ignorant!
  Once again thank you for your patience and comments, much appreciated!

• I use Skype. It is now a part of Microsoft. I have a signature in wire run. How to get help?

  I have Windows XP Home Edition and I sign my Skype account.  Need me more time to access.

  Where to get assistance from Skype?
  http://answers.Microsoft.com/en-us/Windows/Forum/Windows_7-windows_programs/where-do-i-get-Skype-support/3ae98b5e-566c-4D8C-B189-37b50e475539

• Asking for feedback on the appellant alleged microsoft - doubtful sound software download

  I received a phone call from someone claiming to be ask to speak to my husband re feedback on a free software from microsoft that he downloaded Microsoft.  My husband wasn't home. The guy would not leave a call back number. My husband says that he has not downloaded anything! This seems doubtful - does anyone know what it is? Have they had the info on us, they knew the name of my husband.

  Hello

  It's a SCAM

  they want or money on your part for programs without value or make an identity theft on you to get even more money and get your internet banking passwords and credit card information, you get allows you to download the software to 'fix' or 'test' for your computer

  read this:

  http://www.Microsoft.com/security/online-privacy/msName.aspx

  Microsoft has none of the unsolicited telephone calls to help you fix your computer

  In this type of scam cybercriminals are calling you and claim to be of Support technique Microsoft. They offer help with your computer problems. Once scammers have earned your trust, they try to steal and damage your computer with malicious software, including viruses and spyware.

  Although the law enforcement can trace phone numbers, often authors use pay telephones, disposable cell phones or stolen cellular phone numbers. Better avoid fooling themselves rather than try to repair the damage afterwards.

  Treat all unsolicited sceptically telephone calls. Don't provide personal information.

  If you receive an unsolicited call from someone who claims to be from Technical Support Microsoft, hang up. We do not have such calls.

  If you think you might be a victim of fraud, you can report it. For more information, see: what to do if you think you have been scammed.

• Cannot remove malicious software toolbars

  My husband has foolishly agreed all downloads and now there malicious software toolbars. I tried everything I could find to remove them, but can't get rid of them. They don't show up under control panel - uninstall Firefox - Addons or Firefox - Extensions. I searched my hard drive for files that support pages told me to pick up, but none of them are there.

  I'm on Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit with Firefox 37.0.2. I tried:

  1: execution of malware, viruses, spyware, adware programs etc. Nothing found. Here's what I ran:

  Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware free
  SuperAntispyware Portable Scanner
  Microsoft safety scanner
  Anti-Rootkit utility - TDSSKiller
  AdwCleaner
  SpyHunter
  Hitman Pro

  2: I have reset firefox.

  3: I ran Adblock, NoScript and started Firefox in Mode safe. No help.

  4: I did a search here and did all the steps in each section. None of the permits.

  I tried so many things that I can't even remember all. I've attached a screen capture, smart toolbars.

  Can anyone help?

  Hi, I see "clicks.beep etc." but is not a toolbar, it's a bookmark in the bookmarks toolbar. If you don't want - or other, just right click > delete.

• Article update: Harden your Mac from malicious software attacks

  Sorry if this is posted in the wrong place.

  Article

  Harden your Mac from malicious software attacks

  Harden your Mac from malicious software attacks

  Seems to be outdated. ( Changed the: July 12, 2013 19:28 46816 views )

  It is the Firefox Mozilla Knowledge Base article

  • Fix Firefox problems caused by malicious software
  • Link firefox:mac https://support.mozilla.org/en-US/kb/troubleshoot-firefox-issues-caused-malware#

  Note

  • This is the official site of support of Firefox that is bound to the User Interface of Firefox browsers.
  • This Mozilla document can not be an article on it, but still had 10s of thousands of views.

  Is someone able to update this document or suggest other resources or document to include in the document of Mozilla?

  Personally, I don't use a Mac.  One point which can be exceeded in the Apple support document some of the references to the clams.

  Is ClamXav graphic version is no longer free?  (https://www.clamxav.com/changetocommercialsoftware)

  There is also now a product available from how Malwrebyes 2015 is considered within the Apple community.
  (Yes I realize that as Linux and Android, you will have less malware and adware issues than the MS OS)

  • Anti-Malware for Mac https://www.malwarebytes.org/antimalware/mac/

  It's free and (probably) equivalent Windows software is well regarded in the Mozilla community.

  Thanks in advance,

  John

  Mac users often ask if they should install "anti-virus" (AV) or software "anti-malware". The answer is 'no', but it can give the false impression that there is no threat of what is loosely called 'virus '. There is a threat.

  1. it is a comment on what you should - and should not-do to protect you from malicious software ("malware") that runs on the Internet and gets onto a computer as an unintended consequence of the user's actions.

  It does not apply to the software, such as keyloggers, which can be installed deliberately by an intruder who has convenient access to the computer, or who has been able to take control of it remotely. This threat is in a different category, and there is no easy way to defend against it. AV software is not intended to and does not, to defend against these attacks.

  The comment is long because the issue is complex. The essential points are in articles 5 and 11.

  OS X implements now three levels of integrated protection specifically against malware, not to mention the protections of runtime such as quarantine the file, execute disable, sandbox, protecting the integrity of system, System Library randomization and randomized address space layout , which can also prevent other kinds of exploits.

  2. all versions of Mac OS X 10.6.7 were able to detect the malware Mac known in downloaded files and block non-secure web plugins. This feature is transparent to the user. Apple calls internally it "XProtect."

  The malware used by XProtect recognition database is automatically updated. However, you should not count on it, because the attackers are still at least a day before the defenders.

  The following restrictions apply to XProtect:

  ☞ circumvented by some third-party network software, such as the BitTorrent clients and Java applets.

  ☞ It applies only to software downloaded on the network. Software installed from a CD or other media is not verified.

  As new versions of Mac OS X are available, it is not clear whether Apple will continue indefinitely maintain the older versions such as 10.6 XProtect database. Versions of obsolete systems security may eventually be affected. Updates to security for the code of obsolete systems will be stop being released at any given time, and which can leave them open to other types of attack in addition to malware.

  3. starting with the OS X 10.7.5, there was a second layer of built-in malware protection, designated "Gatekeeper" by Apple. By default, applications and installation packages downloaded from the network will be run only if they are digitally signed by a developer to a certificate issued by Apple. Certified software in this way has not been checked for safety by Apple, unless it comes to the App Store, but you can be reasonably sure that it has not been changed by someone other than the developer. His identity is known to Apple, so it could be held legally responsible if it distributes malicious software. Which may not mean much if the developer lives in a country with a weak legal system (see below).

  Access controller does not depend on a database of known malware. He has, however, the same limitations as XProtect and in addition the following:

  ☞ It can easily be turned off or overridden by the user.

  ☞ A malware attacker could find a way around it, or could take control of a certificate of signing of code under false pretenses or could simply ignore the consequences of the distribution of malware Tryggvason.

  ☞ Developer App store could find a way around the Apple control, or the control may fail due to human error.

  Apple took too long to revoke some known attackers codesigning certificates, thus diluting the value of the keeper and the program developer ID. These variances do not involve the App Store products, however.

  For the reasons given, App Store, and, to a lesser extent - other applications recognized by signed Gatekeeper, are safer than others, but they cannot be considered to be absolutely sure. "Sand" applications could make to access to private data, such as your contacts, or for access to the network. Think that before granting access. Security sandbox is based on user input. Never click through any application for leave without thinking.

  4. by starting with OS X 10.8.3, a third layer of protection has been added: a "Malware Removal Tool" (MRT). MRT runs automatically in the background. He checks and removes, malware that corresponds to a database of recognition held by Apple. To ensure that MRT will be executed when the database is updated, the App Store tab in system preferences and check the box marked

  Install the system data files and security updates

  If it is not already done.

  As XProtect, MRT is effective against known threats, but not against strangers. It alerts you if it detects malware, but otherwise, it has no user interface.

  5. the built-in Mac OS x security features reduce the risk of malware attack, but they are not and will never be complete protection. Malware is a problem of human behavior, not a behavior machine, and none only of technological solution will solve. Software protect you from trust only will make you more vulnerable.

  The best defense is always going to be your own intelligence. Except perhaps feats of Java, all the known malware, circulating on the Internet wearing reached a completely setting installation to update to OS X 10.6 or later takes the form of so-called "Trojans", which may have no effect if the victim is deceived in their execution. The threat thus amounts to a battle of wits between you and cybercriminals. If you are better informed, they think you are, you win. In effect, it means that you always stay in the shelter of practical computing. How do you know when you leave the safe harbor? Here are a few signs warning of danger.

  Software from a reliable source

  ☞ Software with a brand, such as Adobe Flash Player, does not come directly from the Web site. Don't be fooled an alert of any website for updating Flash, or your browser, or other software. A real alert that Flash is outdated and blocked is shown on this support page. In this case, follow the instructions on the support page. Furthermore, assume that the alert is false and that someone is trying to rip you off to install malicious software. If you see these alerts on more than one Web site, ask for instructions.

  ☞ Software any is distributed via BitTorrent or Usenet, or on a Web site that distributes pirated music and movies.

  ☞ Rogue sites Web such as CNET Download MacUpdate, Soft32, Softonic and SourceForge distribute free applications that have been packaged in a superfluous "install".

  ☞ The software is advertised through spam or intrusive web ads. Any announcement, on any site, which includes a direct link to a download should be ignored.

  Software that is clearly illegal or doing something illegal

  Commercial software ☞ high-end such as Photoshop is "cracked" or "free."

  ☞ An application helps you violates copyright law, for example to circumvent the copy protection on a commercial software, or streamed media recording to be reused without permission. All the 'YouTube downloaders' are in this category, but not all are necessarily malicious.

  Conditional or unsolicited offer from strangers

  ☞ A phone calling or a web page you indicates that you have a "virus" and offers to remove. (Some reputable sites warned visitors who have been infected with the malware "DNSChanger" legitimately. The exception to this rule applies.)

  ☞ A web site offers a free content like music or video, but for use, you must install a "codec", 'plug-in', 'player' 'Downloader', 'extractor', or 'certificate' which comes from the same site, or a stranger.

  ☞ You win a prize in a competition that you are never entered.

  ☞ someone on a forum like this is eager to help you, but only if you download an application of your choice.

  ☞ a 'FREE WI - FI!' network presents itself in a public place like an airport, but is not provided by management.

  ☞ Online everything that you expect to pay is 'free '.

  Unexpected events

  ☞ a file is downloaded automatically when you visit a web page, without any further action on your part. delete any file without opening it.

  ☞ You open what you think, it is a document and you receive an alert that it is "an application downloaded from the Internet." Click Cancel and delete the file. Even if you don't get the alert, you must always remove any download that is not what you expected it to be.

  ☞ An application does something you don't expect, such as permission to access your contacts, your location or the Internet without obvious reason.

  ☞ Software is attached to the email you na not ask, even if it is (or seems to come) by a person of trust.

  I do not leave the safe harbour that once will necessarily lead to disasters, but make a habit of it will weaken your defenses against malicious software attacks. None of the above scenarios must, at the very least, make you uncomfortable.

  The emergence of data "ransomware" for Mac was part of the defense against the attacks of backup all data. Since an infected machine could destroy its own backups, at least a backup unit must always be in offline mode. For example, you could turn your backup drives, keeping one with you or another site. This strategy also protects against a physical threat such as a fire or theft.

  6. Java on the Web (not to be confused with JavaScript, to which it is not related, despite the similarity of names) is a weak point in the security of any system. Java is, among other things, a platform to run complex applications in a web page. That was always a bad idea, and Java developers have proved unable to apply it without also creating a portal for malware to enter. Past Java exploits are the closest thing there has ever been a type virus Windows affecting OS X. simply load a page with Java malicious content could be harmful.

  Fortunately, client-side Java on the Web is outdated and largely disappeared. Only a few outdated sites still use it. Try to accelerate the process of extinction by avoiding these sites, if you have a choice. Forget to play games or other uses not Java essentials.

  Java is not included in OS X 10.7 and later versions. Discrete Java installers are distributed by Apple and Oracle (the developer of Java). Do not use one unless you need it. Most of the people don't. If Java is installed, turn it off- not the JavaScript in your browser.

  Whatever the version, experience has shown that Java on the Web is not reliable. If you must use a Java applet for a job on a specific site, Enable Java only for the site in Safari. Never activate Java for a public Web site that carries the third-party advertising. Use only on websites that are well known, protected by login and secure without ads. In Safari 6 or later, you will see a padlock icon in the address bar when you visit a secure site.

  7. another perennial weak point is Adobe Flash Player. Like Java, Flash is declining well deserved, but content Flash is still much more widespread than the contents of Java on the Web. If you choose to install the Flash plugin, you can reduce your exposure to Flash by checking the box marked

  Stop the plug-ins to save energy

  in the Advanced tab of the preferences of Safari window, if not already done. Consider also installing an extension Safari as "ClickToFlash" or "ClickToPlugin." They will prevent the Flash content automatically load and are initially not Flash video is substituted for Flash on YouTube and perhaps a few other sites. I tested the extensions and found them safe, but you should always do your own research before you decide whether to trust any third party software.

  8. remain within the sphere of security, and you will be as safe from malware you can be practically. The rest of this comment is what you must do to protect you.

  Although it may seem counterintuitive, you should never install any AV or products 'Internet security' for Mac if you have a choice, because they are all worse than useless. If you are required by a (wrong) institutional policy to install some kind of AV, choose one of the free apps in the Mac App Store, nothing else.

  Why you should not use products AV?

  ☞ To recognize malware, software depends on a database of known threats, which is always at least one day to day. This technique is a proven failure, as a major supplier of AV software has admitted. Most of the attacks are "zero-day" - that is, previously unknown. Recognition-based AV does not defend against such attacks, and the enterprise IT industry comes to realize that the traditional AV software is worthless.

  ☞ design is based generally on the nonexistent threat that malware can be injected at any time, anywhere in the file system. Malware is downloaded from the network; He is not of the blue leaves. To meet this threat does not exist, a commercial AV software changes or low level functions of the operating system, which is a waste of resources and a frequent cause of instability, bugs, poor performance, and duplicates.

  ☞ changing the operating system, the software can also create weaknessesthat could be exploited by malicious attackers.

  ☞ especially, a false sense of security is dangerous. This fact relates to all AV software it will never be any changes elsewhere.

  Using the software AV defines you for double exploitation: by hackers, malicious software, that the software does not protect you and the actual AV industry. The latter will often try to hang with a product free of appeal , so it can charge you for "improvements" later.

  9. a free AV product from the Mac App Store is safe as long as you don't let it delete or move files. Ignore all the warnings that it can give you on "heuristic" or "phishing." These warnings, if they are not simply false positives, see the text of e-mail messages or updates cached web pages, not malware. Also ignore any attempt to upsell you to a paid version of the product.

  An AV application is not necessary and may not be invoked for protection against malware for OS X. It is useful, or even not at all, only to detect malware Windows and even for this use it is not really effective, because the new Windows malware makes its appearance much faster than OS X malware.

  Windows malware cannot hurt you directly (unless, of course, you use Windows). Just do not pass to someone else. A malicious link in the e-mail is usually easy to recognize by the name alone. A concrete example:

       London Terror Moovie.avi [124 spaces] Checked By Norton Antivirus.exe

  You don't need software to tell you it's a horse Trojan for Windows. Software may be able to tell what trojan is, but who cares? In practice, there is no reason to use a recognition software, unless an organizational strategy requires. Malware Windows is so widespread that you must assume that it is in each attachment until proof to the contrary.

  A free AV product on the App Store can serve a purpose if it fulfills a misinformed network administrator that requires to have some sort of application AV. An App Store product will not change the operating system; in fact, it does nothing, unless you run it.

  If you are just curious to know if a file is recognized as malware by the AV engines, you can download it from the "VirusTotal" site, where it will be tested against most of them. A negative result is evidence of what whether, for the reasons given above. I do not recommend doing this with a file that may contain private information.

  10. There seems to be a common belief that the firewall Application acts as a barrier to infection, or prevents operation of malware. He does not. It blocks incoming connections to some network services you are using, such as file sharing. It is disabled by default, and you should leave it like that if you're behind a router on a private home or office network. Activate only when you are on an untrusted network, for example a public Wi - Fi hotspot, where you do not want to provide services. Disable services that you don't use in the sharing preferences window. All are disabled by default.

  11. as a Mac user, you don't have to live in fear that your computer may be infected whenever you install the software, read emails, or visit a web page. But nor can you assume that you will always be free from exploitation, no matter what you do. Internet browsing, it's like walking the streets of a big city. It can be as safe or as dangerous that you choose to do so. The greatest harm done by software AV is precisely its selling point: it makes people feel safe. They can then feel sufficiently safe to take risks, which the software does not protect them. Nothing can reduce the need for safe computing practices.

• Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool vs Malwarebyte Anti-Malware

  Explain the difference/other services/conflicts between Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool and Malwarebyte Anti-Malware.

  I currently use Anti-Malware in conjunctgion with KIS 2012.

  Hi RW,.

  Not precisely.  I say that the Windows Firewall is perfectly adequate, and I don't know any others that provide better protection (but others may have more options of configuration or bells and whistles, some will offer essentially equivalent protection, and some are not as good as Windows Firewall).  Of course, some will say that there are some firewalls that are better than the Windows Firewall, but is no longer a subject of debate and discussion than anything I saw firmly and convincingly demonstrated.  And we know that the Windows Firewall works properly with Windows and other Microsoft products and has great support.  And I never heard of software conflicting with the Windows Firewall, I heard things regarding 3rd party brands - involving mainly browsers, e-mail programs and security as well as configurations of network programs (not just internet, but internal intranet, you can have in your home using cables (, wireless routers/modems, infrared devices, bluetooth, remote deskop (internal or external) devices if used parental controls, interfaces with the security at home and/or surveillance systems wireless devices such as printers or scanners or fax machines and other similar things).

  Remember, without a firewall your computer give to anyone trying to access the system through any network or remote connection via the ports.  There are several ports, most average users never need.  The firewall blocks essentially all ports except those that are specifically excluded.  That's where you come in.  Each has a default list of excluded ports.  You must go through this list and remove all exclusions that you know you don't need (and be sure you KNOW what you have blocked before deleting the exclusion).  Each exclusion represent a hole in your security that an attacker could have access.  The less the better.  When I came through the list, I probably cut just a little less than 50% of registrants - but I cut some I used but rarely I would have rather the firewall blocks and make the extra effort to unblock port temporarily the few times that I need to leave open at all times.  Although for Vista, this article will help you understand the basic concepts of http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-vista/Firewall-frequently-asked-questions.   Attention to the last on the list because it provides links to other articles where you can get better and more information that can help you to choose and decide.

  I'm not going to argue here, since you have already the product and more.  This isn't what I would have chosen, but it is probably one of the best on the market suites and much, much better than some other choice, you could have done.  According to me, that it will probably do the job.  Quite simply, I don't know how good it is the Firewall works because I've never used this before then.  It may in fact be just as good and offer more features, or may not provide the same level of protection or cause any problems or conflicts with other programs or with your network (depending on how you setup).  I do not know.  You bought the suite because you wanted more features than just anti-virus protection.

  I think you can guess what I personally would do, but I can't advise you on what to do here - it's your software, your computer and your decision to make.  Don't forget that you can always disable the firewall in KIS and activate Windows Firewall (or the reverse), once you choose.  This comment in my post was directed at all the recipients and I didn't change it to you specifically - I mean not that it appear as more accurately you invites to spend now that you have already bought another product.  I was trying to say to people in general, he was no need to spend money on a separate firewall when the Windows Firewall has been excellent and would do the job perfectly well.  However, Windows Defender does NOT provide adequate and afflicted an antivirus program protection must be added (that may or may not turn off defender during the installation) to be sure.

  In short, the decision is yours to make.

  I hope this helps clarify things.

  Good luck and best wishes!