Viruses cause harm
Unless you take action, your computer, tablet or smartphone is defenceless in the face of internet danger. Anyone can use malware (viruses, worms, trojans, etc.) to view, manipulate and even delete your data. That’s why you should check that you have antivirus software installed and a firewall activated on your device.
Key points to remember:
Use antivirus software and activate its automatic update function.
Periodically check your device for virus infections by running a complete system check.
Activate the firewall that comes with your Windows or macOS device before you connect your device to the internet or another network.
Be vigilant: viruses are catching!
“Malware is a general term for software that can harm computers and their users. It covers things like viruses, trojans and worms.”
André Duvillard is delegate for the Swiss Security Alliance (SVS). He coordinates security policy between the federal government and the cantons.
Virus protection on your computer
Use antivirus software and a firewall which is maintained with automated updates so that you are always protected against the latest risks.
Windows
Windows 10 is supplied with a firewall, and the Windows Defender antivirus software is activated as standard. This ensures that you are protected. There is a wide range of software available (some of it free) to give you an extra layer of security, such as a parental control content filter. Examples include:
AVG Free Anti-Virus, Avira Free Antivirus, Bitdefender, F-Secure, G Data, Kaspersky, Malwarebytes, McAfee, Norton, Panda, Sophos, Trend Micro
macOS
Activate the internal firewall. To do so, click the Apple menu > System Preferences. Go to Security & Privacy > Firewall to activate the firewall.
MacOS also has an integrated protective mechanism to prevent malware infections. The Gatekeeper software, which is activated as standard, will prevent you accidentally installing malware.
Additional protection is provided by specific antivirus software:
AVG Free Anti-Virus, Avira, Bitdefender, F-Secure, Kaspersky, Norton, Trend MicroÂ
Virus protection on your smartphone or tablet
It is not particularly easy to install a firewall on a smartphone or tablet. You even run the risk of damaging the device and invalidating your guarantee. We therefore advise against it.
At the moment, you don’t need any antivirus software for iOS devices such as iPhone or iPad. This is because of the closed operating system, which prevents the installation of any questionable apps or other malware, and which severely restricts the permissions of any apps installed.
You should make absolutely sure that you are using antivirus software on Android devices. We recommend the following options, some of which are free:
AhnLab, AVG, Avira, Bitdefender, G Data, Kaspersky, McAfee, Norton, Sophos, Trend Micro.
OK with virus protection?
Then go straight on to our next S-U-P-E-R tip.
Further information and contact points
Contact Points
Swiss Crime Prevention and the cantonal and municipal police forces (www.skppsc.ch)
«eBanking – but secure!» (EBAS) (www.ebas.ch)
National Cybersecurity Centre NCSC (www.ncsc.admin.ch)
iBarry – the internet security platform (www.ibarry.ch)
Cybercrimepolice (www.cybercrimepolice.ch)
