What is Malware?

The term Malware is generally accepted to be a short form of the words Malicious software. This typically encompasses multiple categories of software such as viruses, trojans, worms, spyware, etc. The goal of malware is to install software that can destroy your data, effect your computer’s performance, cause a crash or allow spammers to send email through your account. Typically the authors of Malware want to use your computer to send spam or phishing emails that will ultimately generate money for them.

How do I know if my PC is infected with Malware?

“My Anti-Virus software doesn’t show any problems, so how do I know if I have any Malware installed?” Unfortunately most antivirus software doesn’t recognise malware, or if it does then it doesn’t do a good job of cleaning up the malware.

What is the best way to get rid of malware?

There are several good products available to identify and remove Malware from your computer. The best and most effective Anti Malware software that I am aware of is Malwarebytes which is available in 2 versions. Both versions of Malwarebytes are fully functional, the two versions are:-

1. Malwarebytes Free edition
2. Malwarebytes Full version (approx £16.00)

Both versions perform full scans and will remove malware from your computer, so you get to try the full capabilities of the product without having to hand over your credit card information. The main difference is that activating the full version unlocks real-time protection, scheduled scanning, and scheduled updating.

Note: Anti-Malware software isn’t intended to replace your anti-virus software, it should be used in conjunction with a traditional anti-virus product – like Microsoft Security Essentials.

Can I Automate Anti Malware Software?

The short answer is yes, you can automate anti malware scans and clean up. You can buy a full copy of Malwarebytes, so that you can schedule the scans and updates.

Another option is to use a Systems Management solution, like SystemAssure, which provides full automation for anti-virus and anti-malware scans and cleanup, alongside monitoring and management.

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