Last year, Microsoft teamed up with the FTC in the “Don’t Get Tricked on Halloween” campaign to crack down on illegal methods used by spammers to distribute unsolicited e-mail. As October is National Cyber Security Awareness Month, only fitting that I replay this blast from the past…
Timed to coincide with National Cyber Security Awareness Month and Halloween on Oct. 31, the “Don’t Get Tricked on Halloween” campaign alerts computer users to the threat of zombie computers and how to protect their personal computers (PCs) from being infected with malicious code. “The only way to slow the spread of zombies and other online threats is by going after them as resolutely and in as many ways as possible,” says Tim Cranton, director of Microsoft’s Internet Safety Enforcement programs.
Stop Zombie PC Attacks in their Tracks: Tips on how Internet users can prevent their computers from becoming zombies:
- Use a firewall to protect computers from hacking attacks while connected to the Internet.
- Keep Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office programs up to date with security updates to shield computers from viruses, worms and other threats.
- Use up-to-date antivirus software and antispyware software to help protect against the latest threats.
- Beware of tricks designed to get people to download and install unwanted and sometimes destructive software. This software is sometimes distributed in non-commercial music downloads, file-sharing programs and free games.
- Be cautious about opening any attachment or downloading any files in e-mails from unknown senders.
The campaign so nice we promoted it twice. Or something like that.
Have a Happy Halloween.
More info:
- Visit http://www.staysafeonline.info.
- To find out more about spyware – what it is, ways your computer can become infected, and what you can do to prevent it – watch this video on protecting your computer.
- If you’re wondering how Windows Defender compares with other Microsoft antispyware and antivirus technologies, check out this product comparison chart.
- Windows Live Safety Center – A Web service designed to help ensure the health of your computer with free scanning tools that help you get rid of unwanted software.
- Malicious Software Removal Tool – A security tool that checks your computer for specific viruses and other malicious software and helps remove any infection found. This tool alone has run more than 2 billion executions.
- Sign up for our security newsletter and receive monthly advice
- Get more online safety tips
Tags: microsoft, antivirus, antispyware, Windows Defender, OneCare.