Malware aims to trick you into installing software on your device that allows scammers to:
- access your files
- watch what you are doing on your device.
Scammers can use malware to steal your personal details.
Ransomware is a type of malware that blocks or limits your access to your own computer or files. Scammers will then demand you pay for them to be unlocked.
Advice to protect yourself from malware
To help protect your devices from becoming infected with malware:
- Think before you click on hyperlinks. Don’t click links in emails, text messages or on websites unless you know who the sender is. You can check where a hyperlink directs to by hovering your mouse over it. Don’t click on the link if you don’t recognise the website.
- Keep your devices up-to-date with anti-virus and anti-spyware software and firewalls.
- Monitor your devices and accounts for unusual activity.
- Don’t trust pop-up windows that ask you to download software.
- Update device operating systems and software applications to the latest versions.
- Create passwords that aren’t easily guessed by others. Update your passwords regularly.
- Enable multi-factor authentication on your accounts. Learn more about multi-factor authentication from the Australian Cyber Security .
If your device is infected with malware
If you suspect that your device is infected with malware:
- Disconnect the device from the network or internet. Isolate the device until it can be examined and…
