When Should I Update?

I'm sure all of us are keenly aware of the notorious pop-ups a Windows based PC can experience, even though common use.  From anti-virus warnings, Windows update, to Java Runtime Client, most computers are littered with tons of different notifications.  The problem is, many viruses and malware these days are actually written to imitate these legitimate updates, and do so with striking efficiency.  They will appear as wolves in sheep's clothing, if you will, even sporting logos of companies such as Microsoft to further persuade unaware clickers.  How then do you know that what you are agreeing to update is actually legitimate, versus the fake updates?  Here are some pointers.

1.  Always Know Your Computer

You should always be very aware of what software is actually installed on your computer.  This is definitely a big plus when it comes to recognizing legitimate updates.  For instance, if you are using ESET Anti-Virus, and a Vista Security 2011 warning comes up, you know something is not right.  Also, you should always keep your version of Adobe Flash/Reader and Java up to date.  These browser extensions are highly known for being vulnerabilities to attack if they are outdated.  Also, be aware of any other malware scanning programs that you might have, if any, and always choose to decline any pop up that comes up to present itself to scan your computer.  ALWAYS DO THIS MANUALLY INSTEAD.  The most basic rule of thumb comes into play here, use common sense.  If it looks suspicious, don't click it.  Or look it.  Or breathe.  Oh wait, you can do those last two, as long as you open up your Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) and "end the task" from there.  Don't even try to click to close it, use Task Manager.  If you are unfamiliar with how to use the Task Manager, please contact us for support.

2.  Know the Tactics of the Enemy

Any time you are presented with the option to "For just $60, clean you computer of 454324863 viruses!", or an option similar to this in any form or fashion, stop what you are doing and click no further.  Malware's intent is to try to steal from you, and that includes your money.  Know that any legitimate virus protection is purchased in the form of a subscription over a time frame of a year or more, and will never ask you to make one time payments.  These problems can be complicated to solve, and can become more complicated if attempted to fix without the knowledge to do so.  Please contact us if you feel you have become suspect to an attack of this sort.

3.  Java Updates

These are most the time more of annoyance than anything.  Most people tell them to go away, or just simply ignore them, but these are actually updates that you shouldn't ignore.  Any time you see an update for Java appear on your taskbar, go to Java.com as mentioned earlier, and download the latest version.

4.  Windows Updates

Depending on your Operating System, you might receive notifications to update Windows.  On Vista and 7, Windows has an updater utility installed on the computer, and can be easily found by going to Start > All Programs > Windows Update.  You should at all times have all of your important and critical updates installed, and even certain anti-virus softwares, such as ESET, will monitor your computer and inform you if you need to run Windows Update.  However, if you are still running XP, you will need to visit update.microsoft.com/ to update your Operating System.  It is a simple step-by-step process that should take no more than 15 minutes, but can take over an hour if you need to upgrade to the next Service Pack.  To sum it up, don't ignore Windows Updates, do them!

Essentially, most updaters can be sniffed out with a little sense.  Like we always mention, 50% of virus protection is provided by your anti-virus software, and the user him or herself provide the other 50% by how they use the computer.  Be smart, and keep your computer up to date the right way.