Week 1: Don’t Make Pandora’s Mistake – Always Verify Attachments & Software
Malware is malicious software that runs on your device and has harmful or undesirable outcomes. Malware can steal, delete or encrypt your data, spy on your computer activity, pop-up or inject annoying ads on your device, or even use your device’s resources resulting in poor performance. Examples include viruses, Trojans, worms, spyware, adware, rootkits, ransomware, keyloggers, and other specialty software such as torrents and coin-miners.
Malware Tips Heading link
In Greek mythology, Zeus gave a box to Pandora, with strict instructions to NOT open it. Pandora’s curiosity soon got the better of her, and consequently, she opened the box releasing all of the evils and miseries of the world to afflict mankind.
In that same manner don’t let your curiosity get the better of you. Avoid opening suspicious email attachments or installing software from untrusted sources. Once you open a malicious file, you spring the trap allowing malware to be installed and executed on your device.
Tips to avoid getting Malware:
- Keep your operating system and software updated.
- Avoid opening email attachments or accessing links in suspicious email messages.
- Only download software from trustworthy and legal websites, not peer-to-peer or torrent networks.
- Install antivirus software, ACCC offers Symantec Endpoint Protection for free for your work and personal devices.
Don’t make Pandora’s mistake — always verify attachments and software!