Just one strategically placed virus, trojan, spyware or other infection can spread throughout your PC, erasing your hard drive, stealing your financial information and making your life miserable.

Malware can be found just about everywhere. 1/3 of pirated software is know to have at least one virus, while one out of every 10 ligitimate websites are infected. To keep your computer safe and secure whilst visiting your favourite sites without worry, follow these simple steps:

1.  Update Softward - make sure you have the latest updates from the software manufacturer to diminish potential hacking.

2.  Update Operating System - Confirm that your system is up to date with the latest patches to minimize the likelihood of cyber infiltration.

3.  Install Anti-Virus AND Anti-Spyware Software - using both quality anti-virus and anti-spyware software will work in conjunction to protect a PC from a variety of malware.

4.  Activate a reliable Firewall - A firewall protects a computer from a multitude of viruses, worms and other malicious exploits and should remain active.

5.  Perform Daily Anti-Virus and Anti-Spyware scans - malware is more likely to be detected with a daily scan.

6.  Activate the Internet Pop-Up Blocker - make sure your default pop-up blocker on Internet Explorer or Firefox are active whilst visiting sites you are not familiar with or do not trust. 

7.  Delete Suspicious Emails - Clicking on a suspicious email with attachments and/or links can be a gateway to corrupting and infecting machines as well as destroying critical data.

8.  Disable Email Image Previews - some malicious emails can be activated when the email is previewed but not technically opened.

9.  Back Up Data - backing up data on CDs DVDs and external hard drives on a regular basis increases the probability of maintaining your critical data and invaluable photos.

10.  Manage Passwords - creating then protecting cryptic passwords can be a simple yet effective way to make life difficult for hackers and to protect your private information.

Information courtesy of Cyberdefender.