1. Computing

Antivirus Software: Most Popular Articles

These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Remove Adware and Spyware
Getting stubborn adware and spyware off your PC can be frustrating. However, there are steps you can take to make the process easier and more effective.
Remove FBI Virus
The FBI Ransomware can take your PC hostage by forcing you to pay a ransom in order to free you computer. Avoid from becoming a victim and follow these step-by-step instructions for removing the FBI Virus.
Best Free Antivirus for Windows
The best free antivirus software for Windows PCs. Here are my top picks and reviews of the best free antivirus software for Windows.
How to Edit the Hosts File
By modifying the HOSTS file, malware can block access to antivirus updates or force you to a malicious website. It's a good idea to check the HOSTS file periodically. Here's how to find - and edit - the HOSTS file on Windows 7, Vista, and XP.
Evernote Tips You Should Avoid
So-called cloud-based services like Evernote provide a convenient way of remotely storing data accessible from any Web-connected device. But that convenience may come with a price: increased risk of data and identity theft.
Antivirus Software for Windows
Antivirus software is must-have protection. This review picks the best antivirus software based on its virus detection abilities, features, and breadth of protection. All tests performed on Windows 7 (32-bit).
Best Mac Antivirus Software
It's true - Mac viruses really do exist, although fewer viruses target the Mac OS compared to Windows. In addition, there are cross-platform threats that can impact Mac users. Though the risk of cross-platform threats is relatively small, it's a risk that is on the increase as attackers move to Java and other third-party software exploits. Fortunately, there are several excellent Mac antivirus offerings - and some are even free.
Disable Add-Ons in IE
When it comes to IE, it seems everyone wants a piece of it. While legitimate toolbars and other browser helper objects (BHOs) are fine, some aren't so legit or - at least - their presence is questionable. Here's how to disable unwanted Add-ons in Internet Explorer.
How to Remove GoogleUpdate.exe
Google Chrome and an untold number of other Google applications may install an update mechanism named googleupdate.exe, googleupdater.exe, or something similar. GoogleUpdate may continually attempt to access the Internet without requesting permission and without providing an option to disable it. This behavior may persist even after the parent application has been removed. While there's no single way to rid the system of googleupdate, the following tips provide the common install locations.
Disable Autorun
The Windows autorun feature enables CDs to play automatically when inserted in the drive. Removable and thumb drives use the same autorun feature to load files when the drives are plugged into the USB port. Malware relies on this autorun feature to spread from thumb drive to PC. Here's how to disable the autorun feature to prevent malware from spreading.
Mac Virus FAQs
Do you really need Mac antivirus software? Get the answer to that and other frequently asked questions about Mac viruses and Macintosh antivirus software in the Mac Virus FAQs.
Sophos Anti-Virus for Mac Home Edition
Sophos Anti-Virus for Mac Home Edition offers business-grade protection free for home use. And the protection literally is business-grade - the free version is based on the same Mac virus scanner Sophos uses in their Endpoint Security line.
Free Antivirus Software
Free antivirus and antispyware software for Windows 7, Vista and Windows XP. Best free antivirus software to guard against viruses, trojans, worms, and spyware.
Configuring Internet Explorer 10
Internet Explorer 10 is the newest web browser from Microsoft. Learn how to configure IE10 for best results.
Top 10 Ways to Get Infected
Keeping safe online takes more than just installing a few security programs. To protect both you and your computer, here are the top ten bad habits you need to avoid.
Free Virus Removal Tools
A list of free tools, tips, and tricks to get rid of viruses and keep them from getting back on your system.
Top Ten Online Scams
Just as the Internet makes it easier for legitmate pursuits, it also makes it easier for scammers, con artists, and other online miscreants to carry out their virtual crimes - impacting our real life finances, security, and peace of mind. These Internet scams are constantly evolving - here are the most common today.
eBay
Reputable firms such as eBay and PayPal have been besieged by email scammers attempting to pilfer valuable credit card details from unsuspecting customers.
Online Virus Scanners
An online virus scanner is not a substitute for installed antivirus, but can be helpful when you need a second opinion. An online virus scanner is also helpful when your existing antivirus is having trouble removing a particular malware. There are several online virus scanners from which to choose and many use the same antivirus engine of their installed counterparts.
Is Google Play Safe?
Is Google Play Safe from Malware?
Disable Java in Internet Explorer
Java is fast becoming the most targeted third-party application for malicious exploit via the Web. One easy thing you can do to avoid this method of attack is simply disable Java. When you do need it for that website game or calculator, just re-enable it (but be sure to turn it back off when you're done)
boot into Safe Mode
Booting in Safe Mode prevents extraneous services and programs - including most malware - from loading at startup.
Computer Safety Tips
Computer security need not be daunting. Here a few simply steps that will keep you computing more safely.
Automatic Wireless Connections
Here's how to beef up your wireless safety by disabling automatic wireless connections.
Boot sector virus repair
Boot sector virus repair
Help! My Email was Hacked!
Do you suspect your email account has been hacked? Can't login to your email account? Are you getting undeliverable and bounce messages for email you never sent? Are friends and family complaining of receiving email you never sent? Is it malware? A hacker? Here's how to tell.
How to Delete a Service
Malware often installs itself as a Windows service in order to load when Windows is started. This allows the malware to run and control designated functions without requiring user interaction. Sometimes, antivirus software removes the malware but leaves the service settings behind. Whether cleaning up after an antivirus removal, or attempting to remove the malware manually, knowing how to delete a service in Windows 7, Vista, or XP will help.
EICAR Test File
EICAR is not a virus. EICAR is a special file used to test antivirus software. Here's how to make an EICAR file to test your virus protection.
Disable AutoComplete - Firefox
AutoComplete not only makes it easier for you to automatically fill in forms and logon to secure sites - it also makes it easier for Trojans and hackers to gain access to your personal data and logon credentials. Here's how to clear the sensitive data stored by AutoComplete and how to disable the feature to protect yourself from compromise.
Top 5 Malware Threats
Learn about the top most dangerous malware and how to protect your PC from being infected.
What is a Virus Signature?
In the antivirus world, a signature is an algorithm or hash (a number derived from a string of text) that uniquely identifies a specific virus.
Setting Mac OS X Login Password
Passwords prevent unauthorized access to your computer. Setting login passwords is easy on Mac OS X 10.5 (Leopard) and 10.6 (Snow Leopard). Just follow the step-by-step instructions below.
What is a Keylogger Trojan?
In its simplest form, a keylogger trojan is malicious, surreptitious software that monitors your keystrokes, logging them to a file and sending them off to remote attackers. Some keyloggers are sold as commercial software - the type a parent might use to record their children's online activities or a suspicious spouse might install to keep tabs on their partner.
AntiVir PE Classic
AntiVir PersonalEdition Classic provides free antivirus protection for Windows XP/2000/NT/ME/98
Remove a Virus When Computer Won't Work
Trying to remove a computer virus or other malware infection can become a battle of wills between you and the attacker. Antivirus software can be a powerful ally, removing most of today's malware with ease. But occasionally, a really stubborn infector may put you at the forefront of the battle. Here's how to help you win.
"Your PC is Infected" Phone Scam
Someone phones you claiming to be from Microsoft, or an antivirus company, or some random tech support facility. They claim their systems have detected that your computer is infected. And of course they are offering to help. So much so, that for just a one-time payment of X, they are willing to offer a full LIFETIME of guaranteed support.
Panda Cloud Antivirus
Panda takes free antivirus to a whole new level with Panda Cloud Antivirus. The only free cloud-based scanner, Panda antivirus software takes all the processing off your PC, giving you a lighter, faster, and more proactive antivirus protection. For a very low price, you can get extended USB protection and 24/7 tech support with Panda Cloud Antivirus Pro.
Antivirus Bootable Rescue CDs
bootable antivirus rescue cd Avira AntiVir Rescue System BitDefender F-Secure Rescue CD
What is Sirefef Malware?
Learn about the dangers of Sirefef (ZeroAccess) Malware and how to prevent it.
Enable Folder Options
Malware often drops itself as a hidden file and then disables the Folder Options menu in Windows Explorer so you can't change the settings to view hidden files and folders. If you are unable to access the Tools | Folder Options in Windows Explorer, here's how to modify the registry to regain access to the Folder Options menu.
SmitFraudFix
SmitFraudFix is a free antivirus tool that removes the Zlob downloader trojan and the rogue scanner software that Zlob typically installs.
Enable Task Manager
To make manual inspection and removal more difficult, malware often disables access to Task Manager. Fortunately, a few quick registry edits are usually all that are needed to regain control. Here's how.
Autorun Worms
Autorun worms spread from USB/thumb drives as well as fixed and mapped drives. Autorun worms typically drop or download additional malware, usually backdoors and password stealers. Here's how to remove an autorun worm.
Prevent PDFs in Internet Explorer
There is an easy way to prevent Adobe Reader and Acrobat from automatically rendering PDF files in your browser. Make this one small tweak, and henceforth you'll be notified if a website tries to open a PDF in your browser.
Most Damaging Malware
All malware is bad, but some types of malware do more damage than others. That damage can range from loss of files to total loss of security. For details, see this list of the most damaging types of malware, including viruses, Trojans and more.
Best Antivirus for Netbooks and Older PCs
Older PCs and netbooks often have limited system resources available. Finding the right antivirus that won't slow down these older systems is key.
iLivid Virus
The iLivid Virus hijacks your Internet web browser and redirects your Internet searches to ilivid.com.
Boot-Sector Viruses
A boot-sector virus takes control when the computer boots up. Here's how it works.
AVG Free Edition
AVG Free Edition provides free antivirus protection for Windows XP/2000/NT/ME/98
Spyware Scanners
Spyware surreptitiously monitors your computer and Internet use, while adware can bombard your PC with unwanted advertising. Both pose a drain on your bandwidth and can lead to loss of security.
Editing HOSTS File on Mac OS X
The HOSTS file supersedes DNS for domain name to IP address resolution. Make sure you know what is in your HOSTS file; unwanted entries could be a sign of malware or other malicious intrusion. Here's how to check the HOSTS file on Mac OS X.
Disable Java in Firefox
Java is fast becoming one of the most targeted third-party applications for malicious exploit via the Web. One easy thing you can do to avoid this method of attack is simply disable Java. When you do need it for that website game or calculator, just re-enable it (but be sure to turn it back off when you're done).
What is a DDoS attack?
Trojans are often used to launch Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks against targeted systems, but just what is a DDoS attack and how are they performed?
Delete IE Cache and Cookies
Internet Explorer caches web pages you visit and cookies coming from those pages. While designed to speed up browsing, if left unchecked the burgeoning folders can sometimes slow IE to a crawl or cause other unexpected behavior. In general, the less is more principal works well here - keep the Internet Explorer cache small and clear it often. Here's how.
Phishing scams
Look over the following examples of phishing scams to familiarize yourself with the clever techniques used.
Configure the Mac OS X Firewall
Firewalls are must-have protection, regardless of the operating system or hardware you choose. All versions of Mac OS X include a built-in firewall, but you will need to enable it or make a few tweaks for optimum security.
Best Free Antivirus for Mac
Social engineering scams are putting Mac users at risk of malware infection. To help keep you safe on even the tightest budget, here are the top picks for the best free Mac antivirus software.
Executable file extensions
By default, file extensions cannot be viewed in Windows. Viruses routinely take advantage of this security oversight.
What Is a Worm?
New email worms can quickly outpace antivirus signature updates. Follow these tips to prevent the spread of fast moving worms.
Trojan:JS/Seedabutor.B
Seedabutor.B is a malicious drive-by download attack. Learn how to remove this malware.
SpyGuard
SpyGuard is classified as a rogue scanner, a category of scam software sometimes referred to as scareware. Rogue scanners masquerade as antivirus, antivirus, or other security software, claiming the user's system is infected in order to trick them into paying for a full version.
Internet Explorer Slowdown
One day, you're surfing the Internet just fine. The next day, Internet Explorer has slowed to a crawl.
AAAAAAA@AAA.AAA
Like its predecessor !0000, the AAAAAAA@AAA.AAA tip is doomed to failure. Worse, it can leave you less protected than you were before.
Sality Virus
Sality is a family of file infecting viruses that spread by infecting exe and scr files. The virus also includes an autorun worm component that allows it to spread to any removable or discoverable drive. In addition, Sality includes a downloader trojan component that installs additional malware via the Web.
Choose Antivirus Software
Choosing the right antivirus software to protect your system from viruses need not be a daunting tasks. Follow these tips to select the antivirus software that best meets your unique virus protection needs.
Is Your PC a Zombie?
In the computer world, a Trojan can be used to turn your PC into their own computing matter - effectively turning it into a zombie machine.
ClamXav Mac Antivirus
ClamXav is based on the open source ClamAV virus scanner. Popular among open source fans, in practice ClamAV lags behind the detection capabilities of commercial antivirus software.
Display Hidden Files and Folders on Mac OS X
By default, Mac OS X hides critical system files and folders. As malware threats against Mac users increase, or simply to assist with troubleshooting, it may be necessary to view hidden files and folders. Here's how to enable hidden file and folder viewing on Mac OS X.
How to Prevent Email Viruses
How to prevent email worms and viruses
Free PDF Readers
Malicious PDF files that exploit vulnerabilities in Adobe Reader / Acrobat were the most common cause of drive-by malware infections in 2009 and remains the highest in 2010. Use one of these free alternative PDF readers to lower your risk of infection and stay safer online.
What Is a Virus?
What is a virus? In today's computing environment, a better question might be what is malware?
AVAST 4 Home Edition
AVAST 4 Home Edition provides free antivirus protection for Windows XP/2000/NT/ME/98
Changes to Shell Open Command
Malware can load from a variety of different places on your PC. In addition to the more common modifications to Windows auto start entry points, malware may leverage the shell open command. This allows it to register itself as the handler for certain file types and thus the virus, worm or Trojan loads when any of these file types are called.
BitDefender Antivirus for Mac
BitDefender Antivirus for Mac detects both Mac and Windows malware. Features include realtime on-access virus protection with the ability to perform full system virus scans, quick scans of critical system areas, as well as scheduled scanning. The quarantine feature in BitDefender Antivirus for Mac safely isolates suspect infected files for forwarding to the BitDefender Antivirus Lab for analysis.
Exclude Files from Norton Scan
False positives can be an annoying problem and unfortunately false positives in antivirus scanners are being increasingly more common. Here's how to exclude a file or folder from scanning by Norton AntiVirus and Norton Internet Security.
AutoStart Entry Points
Following is a list of the autostart entry points in Windows, including startup folders, registry keys, and ini files.
Autorun FAQs
Autorun is one of those 'convenience' features in Windows that can cause more harm than good. Essentially, Following are frequently asked questions about the Autorun component, including why Autorun can be dangerous and how it can be disabled.
Updating Internet Explorer
This tutorial will show you how to upgrade your Internet Explorer (IE) browser to the latest version using a variety of methods.
Internet Explorer settings
Spyware and adware often change your browser Start and Search pages to point to unwanted websites. Even if you've removed the infestation responsible, you may still need to reset the web settings. Here's how to do this in Internet Explorer.
Password Safety
So you've created a strong password system following the tips outlined in Passwords: Creating and Maintaining
System Restore
Antivirus software may report that a virus was found in either the _RESTORE (Windows ME) folder or the System Volume Information folder (Windows XP) but the antivirus software may be unable to remove it.
Internet Errors
One day, you're surfing the Internet just fine. The next day, some or all of the sites you typically
Edit the System Registry
A quick guide to modify of change values in the System Registry
Bitdefender Internet Security Suite
Bitdefender Internet Security 2012 offers some important new features that emphasize usability and social networking safety.
Check Trusted Sites List
Some spyware and adware will add miscreant links to your Internet Explorer Trusted Sites Zone. This may allow the sites to run with fewer security restrictions. Make sure you periodically check the Trusted Sites Zone list to ensure only sites you have specifically added are included. Here's how.
Recover Missing System Files
On occasion a valid system file can be inadvertently deleted or quarantined. Sometimes, the results can seem disastrous - a looping blue screen each time you try to boot up the PC. Other times, a stop error with a cryptic message may be the result. Here's how to replace the missing file(s) to get your system operational again.
Regedit is Disabled
Some malware will disable access to the Registry editor. Symptoms include: The registry appears to open but then quickly closes, or you receive the error "Registry editing has been disabled by your administrator". Here's how to regain access to the Windows System Registry.
View Hidden Files and Folders
By default, Windows does not display hidden files and folders. Virus writers often take advantage of this, by dropping hidden files to the system that the casual user can't see. Here's how to view hidden files and folders in Windows.
Open the System Registry
How to open the System Registry
Antivirus FAQs
Answers to frequently asked antivirus questions
Buy Antivirus Software
Antivirus software is one of the most important software programs on your PC. Make sure you know how to select and use it properly. Find out which products fared best and made the Top Picks list.
BlackHole RAT
BlackHole is a remote administration tool (RAT) that, used maliciously, can also serve as a remote access trojan. The BlackHole RAT can be used on either Mac OS X or Windows computers, and enables a remote attacker to perform potentially malicious actions on the victim's computer.
Intego VirusBarrier X5
VirusBarrier provides realtime signature-based and behavior-based scanning and guards against both Mac-specific and Windows-based malware.
Disable Windows Remote Desktop
Want to protect your computer from unwanted remote login? One step you should take is to disable Windows Remote Desktop. Here's how.
File viruses
As their name suggests, file infectors infect executable type files, either inserting their code into some part of the original file so that it can be executed when the file is accessed, or overwriting the file entirely.
Bitdefender Sphere
Bitdefender Sphere solves a modern day problem faced by today's home user: how to cost effectively protect a wide range of disparate devices against malware and other online threats.
Passwords
Unless unique passwords are used for each site, it takes only the compromise of a single site's credentials to have a toppling domino affect on the security of all your online assets.
Winwebsec
Fake antivirus software will conduct false virus scans on your computer. Learn how to detect these threats.
Package Tracking Scams
Package delivery and shipping scams are all too common. This simple tip will keep you from being fooled.
Protecting the HOSTS file
Viruses and spyware use the HOSTS file to block access to antivirus and security websites, or redirect attempts to visit other websites. Here's how to thwart these unwanted modifications to the HOSTS file.
Adware and Spyware
Generally speaking, adware and spyware work hand-in-hand. Adware is a program that installs an additional component that feeds advertising, often by delivering pop-up ads or by installing a toolbar in your browser. Spyware surreptitiously monitors your computer and Internet use.
Hoax Encyclopedia: Virus hoaxes
Virus hoaxes and myths waste time and money, and make the sender look foolish. Don't fall victim to a hoax. Use the Hoax Encyclopedia to check out the facts behind that dire sounding email.
Make Adobe Safer
ulnerabilities in Adobe Reader and Adobe Acrobat are the number one most common infection vector, bar none. Making sure you stay up-to-date with the latest version of Adobe products is imperative, but not foolproof. To use Adobe Reader (and Acrobat) safely, you need to make a few tweaks to its settings. Following are the must-make security changes you need to make in Adobe Reader and/or Adobe Acrobat.
What is Malware?
A detailed explanation of malware, which includes viruses, trojan horses, logic bombs, spyware, worms, and rootkits.
Virus Alerts
We've all been there - you get an alert from your virus scanner warning that a particular file is infected. Sometimes the alert reappears even after you've told the antivirus scanner to remove the infection. Or maybe you just have reason to believe the virus alert may be a false positive. Here are the six things you'll want to consider to determine how to handle a virus alert.
What is Stuxnet
Stuxnet is a computer worm that targets the types of industrial control systems (ICS) that are commonly used in infrastructure supporting facilities (i.e. power plants, water treatment facilities, gas lines, etc).
Sandboxie Review
Visit Their Website Sandboxie creates a virtual environment for selected programs, allowing the program
Disk Antivirus Professional
Disk Antivirus Professional is a FAKE antivirus application. Learn how to detect and prevent it from infecting your computer.
eBay & PayPal Scams
ebay paypal scams and phishing email
Lottery
The International Lottery Winner scam attempts to trick recipients into believing they have won large sums of cash, and then bilks them out of their own dough in a similar fashion to the Nigerian 419 scam.
Disable IFrames in IE
Malicious iframes planted on compromised websites pose big problems for Web surfers. Fortunately, Internet Explorer v6 and above includes a feature that can help protect against malicious iframes. But use with caution - there are many legitimate uses for iframes and IE doesn't distinguish between these.
Web Browser Security
Whether through social engineering or through web site exploit, the choice of browser will be of little help. All browsers are equally susceptible to web-based malware and this includes Firefox, Opera, and the much maligned Internet Explorer. Disabling Javascript on all but the most trusted sites will go a long ways towards safer web browsing.
Wireless Security Tips
Wireless Internet access is available at most coffee shops, bookstores, airports, and hotels around the world. But how safe is it
Trojan
A Trojan is a self-contained malicious program that is different from a virus but can have the same kind of effect on your computer.
Amazon Phishing Scam
Phishing scams are disguised as correspondence from valid financial or eCommerce providers. The email typically uses fear tactics in an effort to entice the intended victim into visiting a fraudulent website. Here's an example of a phishing scam targeting Amazon.com customers.
Kill Winlogon
Malware often hooks into the Winlogon process, enabling the malware to load even in Safe Mode. Removing malware load points from Winlogon may require shutting down the Winlogon process. Here's how.
How to Disable AVG When It Crashes Your PC
Search for " AVG crash " and you'll find over 2 million hits on Google. The systemic problem of AVG crashing
Online Virus Sandbox
Years ago, if your antivirus detected a virus, chances are you'd find a pretty complete description of that threat in any number of virus encyclopedias. Today, however, with a few tens of thousands of malware being dissected each day, it's very rare to find a meaningful virus description. Fortunately, if you need specific details on what a particular bit of malware does, there are several online virus sandboxes that can give you a quick answer.
Antivirus for Gamers
Most everyone realizes that antivirus and firewalls are must-have protection. But when protection interferes with online gaming, it can be sorely tempting to disable that protection in favor of uninterrupted play. These antivirus scanners tackle the unique problems of gamers so you can play without sacrificing performance or protection.
Free Firewall for Windows
A firewall offers important security protection, but only if its configured properly and used appropriately. Windows XP and Windows Vista both include built-in firewalls, but the protection they offer is limited - you'll want to upgrade to a standalone firewall to get full protection. Following is a list of the best free firewall apps for Windows.
What is a Logic Bomb?
Logic bombs are malware that are executed in response to specific events. Learn more about logic bombs and how you can avoid this attack.
Firefox Redirect Virus
Firefox Redirect Virus causes unwanted results by redirecting your Internet searches. Follow these steps to help you remove the Firefox Redirect Virus.
Drive-by Download
Drive-by Downloads are malicious attacks that can infect your computer. Learn more about this threat.
Reset IE Settings
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, something happens that causes Internet Explorer to become unstable. Fortunately, Internet Explorer 7 offers an easy-to-use feature that deletes all temporary files, disables add-ons, and resets changed settings back to their defaults. Here's how to reset Internet Explorer v7 settings.
PC Tools iAntiVirus for Mac
PC Tools iAntiVirus offers solid Mac antivirus free for home use. iAntiVirus guards against Mac only malware - a focus that helps keep performance costs and system impact low but may not be the best choice in a mixed Mac/Windows environment.
False Positive
False positives occur when a pattern of code in the file matches the same pattern contained in a virus signature.
Avira Internet Security 2012
Avira Internet Security 2012 provides solid protection against malware and holistic protection against all forms of Internet threats.
McAfee VirusScan for Mac
McAfee VirusScan for Mac (formerly known as Virex) can be used as a standalone virus scanner for Mac or integrated with McAfee ePolicy Orchestrator (ePO) for enterprise management.
What is Antivirus Software?
You've been told to run antivirus software and so you do. But do you really know what antivirus software is?
Disable Autorun in Vista
A bug in Microsoft Vista executes programs in the Autorun.inf file when the Autorun feature has been disabled via the NoDriveTypeAutoRun registry value. If you've set the value NoDriveTypeAutoRun in the Windows Vista registry, delete the value and follow these steps to really disable autorun in Vista.
25 Years of Malware
In January 2011, Brain - the first PC-based malware - turned 25 years old. (It's worth noting that the first computer virus was actually a Mac virus, Elk Cloner, in 1982). Following is a brief history of the first 25 years of malware evolution.
5 Ways to Keep Your PC Safe from Suspicious.Emit
Suspicious.Emit; computer virus; new computer viruses; malware; Prevent Suspicous.Emit
What is Scareware?
Scareware is fraudulent and malicious software that is advertised as being a virus scanner or other security
Life Owner Mail Server Report
The Life Owner / Mail Server Report hoax is yet another bogus email warning that gets fueled by confusingly worded references.
Uninstall NOD32
A handy how-to guide for uninstalling NOD32 antivirus scanner.
Invitation Virus Hoax
Description: A hoax. The Postcard from Hallmark virus hoax is a knock-off on the old A Virtual Card for
VirusBarrier Express
VirusBarrier Express from Intego is a free on-demand Mac antivirus. VirusBarrier Express scans for Mac malware only, so it's most suited for Mac only users. The lack of realtime on-access protection could be a plus or minus, depending on your needs.
Browser Hijacking
Often accused of being drive-by downloads, these pesky Internet parasites can quickly take advantage
Is Your Antivirus Working?
When malware gets onto the system, one of the first things it may do is disable your antivirus scanner. It may also modify the HOSTS file to block access to antivirus update servers. Here's how to check for both.
!0000 Trick
Does !0000 in your address book really stop viruses?
AVG Rescue CD: Review
The free AVG Rescue CD combines a bootable rescue platform with antivirus and system utilities to help ferret out even the most stubborn infections. Utilities include a file manager (Midnight Commander), Windows Registry Editor, a text editor, and various drive recovery and network diagnostic tools.
Browser History Sniffing
Sometimes the desire to contextualize content delivery can go too far and can be used for malicious purposes. Here's how to block browser history sniffing, cache timer attacks, and Adobe Flash offsite cookie storing.
Phishing Filters
Phishing filters and toolbars are designed to protect the web surfer from socially engineered phishing scams which try to trick the intended victim into visiting a fraudulent website disguised to look like a valid eCommerce or banking site. Use one of these phishing filters when browsing to help prevent being fooled by a phishing scam.
How to Remove Login Startup Items in Mac OS X
Mac malware may load itself as a login startup item, thus manually removing malware on Mac OS X may require deleting that login startup item. Follow these steps to remove unwanted login apps in Mac OS X.
Preventing Spyware
Considering the lengths some companies will go to in order to ensure their adware/spyware cannot be easily removed, the best protection is prevention. Fortunately, preventing adware and spyware is simple enough and if you're willing to apply a little elbow grease it won't cost you a dime.
McAfee SiteAdvisor
McAfee SiteAdvisor is the virtual equivalent of the school crossing guard, helping to ensure safe navigation of the web.
Identity Theft Protection
Every 3.5 seconds in the United States, someone's identity is stolen. Unfortunately, many view identity theft as an 'online' only problem. It's true that phishing scams, Trojans, and other forms of cybercrime are a factor, but there are also far more low tech means of identity theft - including digging through your garbage or stealing your wallet or purse. You can minimize your risk by following these ten tips.
Greeting Card Scams
Be aware of scams that masquerade as greeting cards. It may just be a trap laid to launch trojans onto the computers of the unsuspecting.
MacScan Antispyware for Macs
MacScan from SecureMac is designed to guard against spyware-related threats targeting Mac users. While its scope is limited, such focused protection isn't necessarily a bad thing.
Exclude Programs from DEP
Data Execution Prevention, or DEP, raises an exception if it detects code loading from the default heap or stack. Since this behavior is indicative of malicious code (legitimate code does not generally load in this manner), DEP protects the browser against attacks rendered, for example, via buffer overflow and similar type vulnerabilities. Sometimes, however, DEP can cause conflicts with legitimate programs. If this happens to you, here's how to disable DEP for specific applications.

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