Viruses and malware are lightly going to be an unending threat for gaming computers or computers in general. For as long as computers exist, they are bound to likewise pose threats. Even gaming websites for children are attacked with malware. To protect your computer, consider doing the following:
Updating Your Operating System
This one’s a basic and should always be done by owners of gaming computers. Operating system patches and updates are not released only to keep things new. It’s not just about the new features. These updates also carry security upgrades to address loopholes or vulnerabilities in the current state of the OS, especially when new threats are detected.
Using Windows Defender
Windows 8 or 10 already comes with Windows Defender. This built-in protection for Windows helps detect and remove viruses, spyware, and other types of malicious software. It runs in the background and displays alerts whenever you need to do something with regards to the security of your computer. You can also use it to do an on-demand scan of your computer. For certain sophisticated malware, you may need to use the Windows Defender Offline version. You would need this in dealing with viruses or malware that prevent you from running the standard Windows Defender. Windows Defender Offline can be run through a DVD or USB flash drive.
Installing and Updating Your Anti-Malware Software
There’s just no excuse not to install an antivirus or anti-malware software in your computer. If you don’t like using Windows Defender, you can use third party anti-malware tools. If you don’t have the budget for it, you can just get a free antivirus program. Many antiviruses nowadays offer free versions of their software. Free doesn’t always mean inferior. The free versions may lack a few features but they usually suffice in providing basic malware protection for your computer.
You just have to be careful of the source from where you are getting a free antivirus or anti-malware software. Make sure it’s from a legitimate website. As much as possible, choose one that has many users. The more users there are, the more people will be sharing thoughts as to whether or not the software does what it purports to do. More users mean more people who would report problems as they are encountered.
Don’t obsess in finding the best antivirus for Windows. At the same time, don’t be quick to believe claims that a certain antivirus is the best or better than others. When it comes to antivirus software, what’s best is always subjective or arguable. Do your research and go over reviews and feedback from other users.
Moreover, make sure that your antivirus or anti-malware software is always updated. These software need to be regularly updated for them to be able to detect and properly deal with threats. Turning automatic updates on for legitimate anti-malware software is recommended.
Running Your Computer NOT as an Administrator
According to a report by security company BeyondTrust, around 90% of vulnerabilities in Windows are mitigated by removing admin rights in a computer. It greatly helps if you prevent the possibility of installing new software to your computer unwittingly. If you remove admin or software installation rights, you will greatly reduce the chances of having your computer infected by malware through deceptive schemes. Games typically don’t require admin privileges to run as they should, so there’s no reason to run your computer as an administrator. Make it a habit to use Windows as a standard user especially if you are not that savvy when it comes to computer security.
Avoiding Pirated Games and Software
Pirate copies of games and software could include codes that could introduce spyware or other forms of malicious software into your computer. They are not only illegal. They could also pose threats to your computer. Additionally, websites that provide illegal copies of games or software are usually mired with malware that could be sent to your computer as you download games or software installers.
Being Mindful of Attachments, Links, and Websites
This is a common reminder for everyone but many still fail to exercise this mindfulness. Many gamers in particular don’t observe any caution when clicking on links in messaging clients or emails. Likewise, many tend to immediately download attachments especially if these bear a title that appears temptingly interesting—a cheat code for example. There are also those who easily fall for phishing attempts.
If you are an avid gamer who has mastered gaming codes and shortcuts, it’s only proper that you also try to be a cautious computer and internet user. For example, you should know that if you are clicking on an attachment that is supposedly a document or image, it should not display dialog box for a software installation. You should be familiar with how malicious browser pop-ups work – you should only click on their X or exit buttons and not on buttons that permit a file download or software installation. You should also adopt the habit of looking at URLs when visiting websites that require you to log in.
Securing a gaming PC from viruses and malware is basically similar to how you would secure a typical computer. You need to update your OS and software, use anti-malware tools, and be careful with what you install or download into your computer. All these should be observed. It’s not enough to just update your system and use anti-malware tools. You also need to be consciously cautious with whatever you deal with online.