3 Basics for safer downloading

These days, downloading or simply clicking on unverified links can be quite risky. Here are some of the basics you should know to keep your computer safe.

1. Get ready: Strengthen your computer’s defenses

New threats emerge hourly, and can come from anywhere—email, websites and removable media like USB keys and CDs. Up-to-date anti-virus software is essential for keeping your network safe from both known and unknown threats. Remember to keep your security components—including those on the following list—up to date.

• Firewalls.
• Antivirus protection.
• Spyware protection.
• Software updates.
• Email spam filters.

Recommended article >> Top 5 Threat Protection Best Practices

2. Download with caution: Think first. Click later.

With your computer’s defenses strengthened, the rest is up to you. Here’s what you can do to protect your computer.

Beware of fraudulent email messages. Don’t click links or open attachments unless you’re sure of the source. In pop-up messages or warnings, click the X (close box) instead of OK or Agree to get rid of the box.

• Only download from reputable sites. Be cautious about downloading from unknown sources and from sites containing objectionable material or too-good-to be-true offers.
• Install and use file-sharing programs cautiously. When you use file-sharing programs to trade music, video, or other files on the web, you make some of your files—or even your entire hard disk drive—available to others using similar software.
• Save files for safer downloads. If you’ve decided to download a file from the Internet, save the file first to your hard drive. Then, when you attempt to open the file, your antivirus software can check the file and delete it if it detects potentially damaging code. To do this, in the File Download dialog box, click the Save button instead of the Run or Open button.

3. Remove malicious software

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you may download a program you don’t want. If this happens to you, here are some ways to get rid of it:

• Run antispyware tools.
• Run the malicious software removal tool. Read this article for more information on how to do this. >> How to get rid of a common and current vicious virus
• Disable add-ons. Web browser add-ons can display things like toolbars and stock tickers but can also install spyware or other malicious software. In Internet Explorer, you can disable add-ons from the Tools menu. Click Manage Add-ons, select the one you want to disable, and then click Disable.

Due to the changing nature of potential attacks, preventing malicious software from damaging your computer takes continuous vigilance. However, by installing and updating protection tools and by using caution when you work, you can help minimize the risk.

Source : http://www.microsoft.com/atwork/security/downloads.aspx