While malware has been around for years, don’t underestimate how it has evolved since the 1980s. Around 560,000 new pieces of malware are detected every day. That said, malware can be prevented by getting back to basics with cyber fundamentals. 

If you want to avoid malware, consider these basic safeguards:

• Use strong, unique passwords. First and foremost, if you use simple passwords across multiple platforms, you’re asking for trouble. Get creative and use a password manager. Whatever it takes to have good password hygiene, do it.

• Update software. Software patches don’t exist to annoy you—ignoring them is like leaving windows open when you leave your house. 

• Enable MFA. Even if you’re using strong, unique passwords like a boss, adding an extra layer of security is always a good idea. Even the strongest password can still be compromised, and MFA can stop unauthorized access in its tracks. 

• Stay vigilant of suspicious emails and links. If something smells phishy it probably is. Always be skeptical, and don’t ever click sketchy links or attachments. 

• Limit admin privileges. Not everyone needs to know everything all the time. It’s better to grant access as necessary. A need-to-know policy is the best policy. 

These fundamentals are your first line of defense. And while they lay a solid foundation, there’s more to combating malware at scale.

Malware prevention is dependent on a multi-layer approach to cybersecurity. 

In addition to the fundamentals we went over, let’s start with some basic cybersecurity awareness training. We are only as fast as our slowest person, making human error and carelessness a cybercriminal’s delight. Employees only engage in the previously listed fundamentals if they’re aware, so don’t underestimate the power of training. Cybersecurity awareness training equips employees with the know-how to spot things like phishing attempts, social engineering schemes, etc. 

Furthermore, let’s talk about our endpoints (devices), i.e., the gateways into our networks. 

Basic antivirus software isn’t enough to stop a potential threat. Advanced endpoint detection—specifically managed endpoint detection and response (EDR)—is the best choice for how to prevent malware attacks. Not only does it provide a watchful eye on all endpoints, but Managed EDR actively hunts for potential threats like an apex predator, turning the cybercriminals into prey.

Lastly, make sure your networks are segmented. Network segmentation is like how hospitals manage a pandemic—isolating infected areas and containing threats.

In the event you catch malware in the act, here’s how to stifle progress: 

• Disconnect from the internet. This prevents malware from spreading. 

• Boot in safe mode. This can stop certain types of malware. 

• Run a full security scan. Use reputable cybersecurity software to detect and remove threats.

• Restore from a clean backup. If you can, restore from a pre-infected backup. 

• Change your passwords. Any time there’s a breach, your passwords and credentials for sensitive accounts must be changed. 

To recap, the three best practices for preventing malware in a multi-layered approach include: 

1. Good security hygiene: Strong passwords, MFA, restricted permissions, and an aware workforce go a long way. 

2. Regular patching and updates: Keeping systems up to date is a way to keep cybercriminals on their toes. 

3. Proactive threat detection: Don’t be reactive to threats. Actively hunt them with Managed EDR and neutralize threats before they do damage. 

Malware doesn’t play fair, but neither do we. Huntress delivers around-the-clock threat detection and response, ensuring cybercriminals don’t stand a chance. Our Managed Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solution doesn’t just alert you to threats—it actively hunts down, investigates, and neutralizes them before they cause serious damage.

Want to see how we stop malicious activity in its tracks? Check out our Managed EDR for Malicious Process Behavior to learn how we can keep your systems locked down and protected. Cybercriminals don’t rest, but with Huntress on your side, you’ll never have to lose sleep over security again. Book a demo with us now.