Hackers can attack your computer through many ways. To keep it protected, it is best that you employ several layers of anti-malware, many of which are available online for free as well.

An antivirus software, a.k.a. antivirus, is a program created to detect, prevent, and remove malware. Antiviruses are designed to also detect malicious URLs, spam attacks, phishing attacks, and many more. Some of the best antivirus today are available for free online.

• Bitdefender Quick Scan
• Trend Micro HouseCall – Free Online Virus Scan
• Eset Online Scanner
• F-Secure Online Scanner
• Panda ActiveScan
• VirusTotal
• Metadefender
• BullGuard Virus Scan

There are many things you can do to protect yourself from malware, viruses, and fraud and also keep your accounts and devices safe. The best place to start is by following a few security tips.

• Install an antivirus, and keep it updated. Considering the possibility of getting cyber-attacked will help you protect the information, keep security in place and discover new updates faster, and keep a close eye on your accounts.
• People manipulate your information through what is called “social engineering.” Calls from a stranger, emails from unknown sources, should be treated as a threat, identified, quarantined and dealt with.
• Only share information on the phone numbers you know. Use precaution while sharing/verifying information. Share your email address with people you know and also know how they will use it.
• Ignore people offering wild promises – free money etc. Open emails and text messages only from the people you know and click on the link from only a trusted sender where you understand the message.
• Read the message carefully to make sure you know the sender. Ignore messages asking for personal and financial information. Do not accidently provide username or password by email or text.
• Keep the Windows updated. This feature is automatic in Windows 10 and cannot be switched off. Turn on the two-way firewall. Always check the firewall status when you switch on the computer. Use the latest version of the web browser. Use Windows Malicious Software Removal tool to remove malware. Microsoft offers its own defense system – the Windows Defender Security. Run system scans at least once a month. If you’re suspicious about the system being infected, use a boot CD scan. Strengthen your security by keeping it up to date. Keep all devices – mobiles, laptops, computers, and tablets up to date with the latest operating system.
• Increase your password security by creating strong passwords using the new guidelines for increasing password security: You can create a unique password by using a combination of random words or phrases, preferably longer. Simply change the end number in the existing password. You should make use of special characters, numbers and upper and lower case letters to strengthen your password.
• Avoid using names like nicknames, birthdays, and other information that people might know about you, or information on social media site.
• Use trick answers in your security questions. Also use two-step authentication. First step is login and second step – a PIN number sent to your telephone for login.
• Be your own private investigator. Look at security indicators on any website – an “s” at the end of http in a website, a lock icon at the end of the screen, and green-colored text instead of red or black.
• If you are filling out a form, go to the company website and submit your information on the legit website. Do not fill your information on a form attached to emails. Monitor your bank and credit card for suspicious charges, transfers etc.
• With increased security, add a pass code to the accounts that do not have one. Change “default” passwords on equipment and devices. Scammers have a list of default passwords and leaving yours unchanged leaves your system open to hackers. Create many passwords for various websites.