There are computers that can be used to install or download files.It is very popular.Downloads include files, music, videos, games and more.Downloads aren't always safe.They can be hard to remove and damage your computer.If you watch for safe extensions, proper digital signatures, and trusted programs, you can save your computer.
Step 1: It's a good idea to be aware of email attachments.
There can be anything attached to an email.Some warning signs can help keep your computer safe.There are document extensions that are dangerous.There are a number of harmful extensions passed through email.These files can be blocked by most email services.Office files should be paid close attention to.Office file extensions that end with m can be dangerous.Although some businesses use macro-enabled documents, be aware of extensions that are safe.It's ok to trust.pptx,.xlsx, and.jpg.
Step 2: Safe to download files from websites.
You should look over the site that you are on.Chances are it is trustworthy if the site has been around for a while.There are files that carry viruses.The main file types to avoid are those with extensions.People can easily be tricked with double extension files.If a file ends in.bat.scr, don't download it!Double extensions can be a virus or torrent.
Step 3: The digital signature needs to be verified.
The file is more likely to be trusted if the signature is valid.The digital signature is a technique used to verify the authenticity of a message.It ensures the security of evidence.When you first download the file, Internet Explorer displays a security dialog box where you can click the publisher link to see the digital signature.This will tell you if the signature is valid.
Step 4: You can submit your file to an online validation.
Even if you don't trust the site, file, and digital signature, you can still use an online service to scans your file.If nothing was detected, you can assume that the file was not a threat.The site will warn you if something was malicious in the file.
Step 5: It's a good idea to turn off file sharing.
Peer-to-Peer (P2P) and file sharing are two programs that lead to illegal downloads.You can save your computer from harmful downloads by disabling file sharing.Go into Tools, choose folder options, click view in advanced settings, and use simple file sharing to remove the check box.
Step 6: Don't engage in illegal activity.
It is against the law to download files that you have not paid for.This occurs through P2P software.Limewire is one of the most popular examples of P2P software.
Step 7: Safe programs can be used.
If you use the P2P software, you are putting your computer at risk, as well as putting you in line for potential fines and jail time.It is against the law to download without permission.You can legally download music through these programs.
Step 8: Don't trust groups.
Although groups used to release software just to show off that they had hacked the encryption of a game, it has now become a scene of spammers, virus creators and people who will steal your information and empty your bank account before you get an hour into your game.If you trust a P2P network, you are giving up all of the information in your computer to a hacker.The hacker can easily get into any details on your computer, making it easy to steal your bank account information or anything else you have stored.It doesn't matter how often you watch the video or play the game.Downloads from a P2P network give these hackers free reign of your information.The installation of a keylogger, trojan, or root kit along with the download gives them access.
Step 9: Use legal game download programs.
Downloads give you some freedom since games are going to run you more than a couple bucks.If something happens, you can re-download it from home.Use some of the safe programs to download games.
Step 10: You can use legal movie download programs.
You will need to pay for these downloads.The fees are usually smaller than if you buy a DVD.If you want to avoid harmful downloads, use the following safe programs.
Step 11: You should know what you buy.
Paying for a video download doesn't make it legal.The programs listed are trusted, but there are many more available.They aren't trusted just because they require you to pay.Do not use torrents.It is illegal to download a torrent file.Even though these programs are set up for an easy download, they will most likely add Viruses or allow a hacker into your computer.placebo files are often linked to downloads by entertainment companies.These are meant to discourage users from using sites that don't have proper copyright holders.