Purging the Parasites: Prevent Re-infection
From CastleCopsWiki
 This article is deprecated and is superceded by the Malware Removal and Prevention Procedure.
|
Once your system is satisfactorily cleaned be sure to follow these guidelines to prevent a reinfection.
Contents |
XP and ME System Restore Points
If you are using Windows XP or ME, you need to SET A NEW RESTORE POINT with System Restore. This will prevent the possibility of you becoming reinfected by restoring your system with corrupted files.
To set a new restore point:
| System | Reference | |
|---|---|---|
| WIndows XP | Creating a System Restore Point | |
| WIndows ME |
The new Restore Point will be stamped with the current date and time. Keep a log of this for your records so you can find it easily should you need to use System Restore.
Windows Updates
Be sure that your computer has the latest Windows Security Updates and Patches from Microsoft. These improve your system's integrity and security, according to our Security Experts.
This step should NOT be performed until you have ensured your system is fully cleaned and all viruses and malware have been removed. This is the recommended procedure by Microsoft before installing SP2. Some computers lock up when SP2 is installed with certain spyware in residence, and spyware programs can interfere with the new security features that SP2 installs by default. For a complete discussion on all necessary precautions see: What to Know Before You Download and Install Windows XP Service Pack 2
Updating Your Security Programs
Because new threats are continually introduced, a security application is only effective if it is updated regularly. Checking for updates can be simplified, by using the calendar provided at the Calendar of Updates website which is updated daily.
Blocking Unwanted Parasites with a Hosts File:
Read the discussion about installing a blocking host files and download the #1 rated MVPS host file
Another variation on the same theme - What is the Hosts file?
Tips for Safer Surfing
- ALWAYS surf with an active internet firewall. The Windows firewall does not provide outbound protection, but ZoneAlarm® FREE will block both inbound and outbound traffic.
- Use only reputable Antispyware and Security Programs: Consult the Rogue/Suspect Anti-Spyware Progam List first, before you download. Do not click on any random solicitations to "Scan your system for spyware".
- Do not download any attachments from unsolicited email or even unexpected attachments from known contacts
- Never provide sensitive personal information (SSN, financial account numbers)in response to an email request.
- Do NOT click on popups ads or download any anonymous software - google it first and read reviews
- Download all software from the vendor/developer site whenever possible (3rd party sites may distribute bundled adware)
- Set Safe Configurations for Internet Explorer and acquaint yourself with the Internet Explorer Security Zones
- Read these suggested Safe Configurations for Firefox
- Read about Cookie Management in The Unofficial Cookie FAQ
- Wireless Network Security For The Home
- If you must use peer-to-peer file sharing software, use it wisely:
- Remove any adware/spyware programs which were bundled with your file-sharing program
- Do not set your file-sharing program to automatically run at Windows Startup
- Do not allow others on the P2P network open access to downloads from you computer
- Close your filesharing program when you are not actively using it
Roll your own Free Security Suite
The final, and most important step, is to secure your system against future malware attacks. And it doesn't have to be costly. You can actually Roll your own Free Security Suite!
Before you leave, a well-deserved congratulations!!
