To many, download managers come as a blessing. They help in downloading content online that would otherwise be impossible to download from the source.
Contrary to popular belief, these downloaders are not a bed of roses. They are simply freeware which aids online downloads, and freeware has been proven to be malware in disguise.
Since most download managers come for free, they are bundled with advertisements, toolbars, and adware, which are mostly used to generate some revenue for the programs. Some managers are filled with even worse malware, such as zip bomb, which can crash the program or system that attempts to unzip or decompress the file.
So, what can you do to ensure that malware that comes with download helpers don’t affect the performance of your PC?
Install a good anti-malware software
Having an anti-virus or anti-malware software is the first step towards ensuring that malware that comes with download helpers doesn’t compromise the functionality of your PC.
But sometimes, you might have an anti-malware program, but still have files in your computer infected. To prevent this, make sure you don’t choose the first anti-malware program you come across. Ensure you do thorough research and choose the best there is in the market.
Make sure the anti-malware software is up-to-date at all times
Even if you purchase the best anti-malware software, you will not prevent viruses from affecting your files and hardware if you don’t keep it up-to-date.
Cybercriminals might create a free download helper that will detect a weakness in an outdated anti-malware software so that they can get access to critical information.
The best way to ensure that your anti-virus is updated at all times is to switch on the automatic update option, which is available in all popular programs.
Run scheduled scans regularly
Sometimes, you trust your anti-malware program too much, such that you forget to schedule regular scans.
If you don’t scan your computer, malware found in download helpers will easily hide in your PC.
Remember, it is difficult to use your computer when the anti-malware software is running. Therefore, schedule scans at a time when you are not using it, especially at night before you sleep.
Experts advise that you schedule scans at least once every week.
Keep your OS up-to-date
Regardless of the OS your devices are running on, make sure they are updated before you think of installing download helpers.
Remember, malware and viruses are created and updated at all times. Therefore, updating your OS will provide security patches that can go a long way in fixing any vulnerabilities that might permit the entry of these bugs into your system.
Finally, remember all download helpers are not made equal. Therefore, ensure you do thorough research before choosing the program you will use to download content from the web.
