Trojans? What are they? How can you protect yourself?

trojan virus

The main objective of trojans is to install other applications on the infected computer so it can be controlled from other computers. Trojans reach computers disguised as an apparently harmless program.

Like viruses, trojans can destroy files or information on your computer. They can also capture and send information to its maker, and allow the maker to control the computer remotely. Additionally, they can capture what you type or record passwords. Trojans are frequently used by cyber-crooks to steal confidential data such as bank information.

PandaLabs, a leading security provider has observed a worrying increase in the production of trojans, as shown in the graph below. “Trojans currently account for 70% of all malware we receive at the laboratory”, says PandaLabs.

Chart
Chart

How can you protect yourself?

To protect yourself against this type of malware, follow these tips:

  1. Do not download anything from unknown websites.
  2. Keep a close eye on downloads made over P2P networks such as limewire, bearshare, morpheus, and others.
  3. Keep your antivirus programs up-to-date, if you don’t have antiviurs, subscribe to Avantech and you’ll get full protection against these and other threats.