So what is Malware anyway? Malware – or malicious software – is a catchall category for many types of Internet-borne problems that can land on your computer and devices, helping cybercriminals to your data, your network, to take control over your computer and other nightmares. It may include viruses found on infected websites, worms spread through emailed attachments, Trojans downloaded in screensavers, or infected applications and programs. Watch this introductory and humorous video with your children to get started:
If your children are among the vast majority of the world’s youth who have encountered negative online experiences, malware was probably among them. It’s just simply the most common bad thing that happens. It is more common than cyberbullying, more common than sexting and far more common than being approached by a stranger on the Internet. Yet it’s likely when you are having your “let’s be safe on the Internet” chat with your children, you skipped the topic to cover privacy, stranger danger and the other top parental woes. That’s ok. We can work together to introduce the topic today and help your children become safer right away.
For those who have had some experience with malware, they may be feeling strong emotions. I’ve listed a few of them here:
- Shame: they might have acquired malware while engaged in forbidden or embarrassing activities, like visiting adult web sites or accepting a download of something illegal, like peer to peer or stolen films.
- Guilt/Denial: kids know the computer is expensive or if your credit card is stolen, you could lose money. They worry that fixing the computer will cost you time and/or money. They may want to pretend they didn’t cause the problem or hide the malware as long as possible. They might make it worse by asking their friends to help them fix it.
- Anger: kids might even blame you for not protecting them or the computer sufficiently. "If the network was more robust, if you gave me more money to buy music or go to the movies, if I had the cool new tablet or smart phone like all my friends I wouldn’t even be on this old computer, etc. etc."
Getting started may only require a viewing of the video above or perhaps a few others you like on the popular video sharing websites. Be sure the content comes from trusted sources like major security firms and government agencies. Then, begin a discussion with your child that allows them to show curiosity, admit mistakes and work with you to improve your collective security savvy. Here are some sample questions intended to start a conversation. Most of the answers can be found on the Norton web site. I have a few hints as well below.
I know you know a lot about computers, but tell me what you know about computer viruses and malware?
How do people get viruses on the computer? And how do you know if they are there? (Hint: not all malware has symptoms like slowing the computer. You might need to check your credit card and online banking statements too.)
What steps should be taken to avoid viruses and malware? What about when you are working within your email program? And what about when you are visiting websites on the Internet? (Hint: browser search tools like Norton Safe Web can prevent you from visiting infected malware-laden websites by mistake.)
If you think you have a virus on the computer, how should you go about removing it? If you don’t know, what web sites could you visit to get more information? (Hint: Norton Live offers great resources including highly trained agents standing by to help remove even the worst malware offenders. And we have free tools for you DIY types.)
If you think you need more information to help your child learn to avoid infecting your computer, devices and network with malware, please visit www.Norton.com/familyresources and order the free Family Online Safety Guide from me by dropping me an email at marian@norton.com.