They indeed are and this is why protection software is still a must for all who regularly use the internet. Any computer connected to the internet from anywhere in the world is at risk, a new one enjoying only a couple of minutes of freedom from such malware before getting infected once connected to the internet.

So how do you check if an unprotected computer is indeed infected? Try doing a search of anti-viruses and a prompt “Not Found!” reply would be sure shot of such an event. To make sure you are safe at all time, check for installed anti-virus software at least when you begin your session, finding none installed is sure sign you are already at risk.

With a huge jump in the use of mobiles to connect to the internet, mostly to social networking sites, risks regarding their use have also risen. Malware that preys on mobile users are out there and use the same tactics as malware on regular computers. They have simply become craftier for mobile apps run on limited resources they cannot prevent brute force attacks from getting in.

One of the most used mobiles around is of course the iPhone which has been scrutinized and criticized heavily for using on-board GPS abilities to track user’s activities. Using say, Twitter on your mobile on the go does not only give your current moods and thoughts but unknowingly also your location that can indeed get serious.

The story starts when you do log onto the internet with a browser of any shape. The browser itself, being made by a company tracks your every move to get you better advertising as well as relevant information. This is why you always get cookies detected during scans by an anti-virus each and every time. Certain web pages do the same, monitoring every move you make to get aimed advertising and content to you as if by magic.

Ever wonder why you seem to get the most frequently visited sites presented during a search, historical data saved by the browser allows it to present you with the most likely sites that you will be visiting.

The debate whether paid vs free anti-virus software continues to this day, free versions being the first line of defense. Regular use of a computer connected to the internet exposes not only you but everybody who uses it at risk of identity theft. Paid or subscription services for anti-viruses allows for peace of mind, and all the support you need for a year at least.

As threats continue to grow exponentially, their tactics do change form time to time. From social networking sites to seemingly legit web pages, dangers abound. Should you not have resources to get paid services, get a free one from the many who offers them for the very basic protection from online threats.

The much loved and ever present Twitter social networking platform has again been hit by a scam in the form of a seemingly innocent ploy of a “Best Video” link that led gullible users to a site that downloaded a PDF file that was loaded with malware, loaded with exploits getting people’s computers infected yet again. The web site downloaded exploits in what seems to be a drive-by move by a worm that redirected people towards a seemingly legit site. The so-called TwitterCut site informed them of an infection and re-directed them onto another page where they were presented with page after page of warnings that said they were infected with some malware, in actuality, they were being pre-loaded with malware that resulted in thousands of affected users of the popular social networking site. (more…)