General malware info/advise

[GeorgeSoros]

Well, I recently got some malware that initially started off redirecting google links (it was easy to circumvent by doubling clicking on the search) and some occasional popups (like every 45 min). That was a minor annoyance because it didn't render the computer unusable, it only causes interference when one uses a search engine, and the ads from the pop-ups weren't porn sites. Recently it has gotten a lot worse because I am now prohibited from opening many applications due to the malware saying that it is infected. Also, not surprisingly, I am told to buy "spyware protection". Well, another sob story yes, but I am just saying this to elicit any anecdotes of similar infections. I did not go on any dangerous website when the influx of malware was installed and it overwhelmed the free version of Avira as it issued a lot of alerts in the period of . Presumably, it was another malware infection that allowed it to go through by creating a backdoor.

I am not petitioning for any specific advice related to these maladies; I realize that it would be much less stressful just to reformat the computer. I am somewhat annoyed, of course, but I was prepared for this eventuality because I downloaded all of the files I want to kept on an external hard drive so I am not irascibly stressed out.

Ok with that whining out of the way... I'll ask some questions:

What percentage of malware is for-profit? Any insights about the risk/reward for malware authors and their financial incentives? What percentage (approximately) of people with infected purchase fake antivirus software for malware? I only ask to understand the monetary expected value for each infection considering that the "antivirus" software costs $50.

The free version of Avira still leaves one open to malware right? And what is the best commercial antivirus that can be purchased in a computer store that prevents the above type of attack?

[swagger]

Hello GeorgeSosos,

I am by no means an expert and I do not have any exact figures, but the malware industry is a multi-billion dollar business. It generates a lot of money on both the good and evil side.

Avira Antivir is a great product, but there isn't a single anti-virus program out there that is 100% foolproof. If you aren't careful, your computer is bound to become infected at one point or another. I would stick with Antivir and just practice safer surfing

Regards,

swagger

[GeorgeSoros]

Hello GeorgeSosos,

I am by no means an expert and I do not have any exact figures, but the malware industry is a multi-billion dollar business. It generates a lot of money on both the good and evil side.

Avira Antivir is a great product, but there isn't a single anti-virus program out there that is 100% foolproof. If you aren't careful, your computer is bound to become infected at one point or another. I would stick with Antivir and just practice safer surfing

Regards,

swagger

I was only using windows firewall. Well, and also Internet Explorer so I committed many sins of omission listed here here].

Does anyone have any idea how many malware infections can be prevented by the use of a good firewall (not Windows XP firewall)? I would at least be comfortable if I had some idea whether downloading a firewall would have prevented this. (I wouldn't feel regretful of my sins of omission if it would because I save everything on an external hard drive --- it saved me from a a lot of stress and I am in a placid mood right now because of this despite the extent of the infection. ) At least I personally had a bad experience so I would take more precautions next time.

[Firefox]

The firewall alone is not going to prevent you from getting infected. You have to have layered protection.

1. Firewall

2. Antivirus software

3. AntiMalware software

Then practice safe surfing and you should be good.