Computer security
None of this is expert advice. It's what people worked out for themselves, usually the hard way — what actually helped, and what they'd tell someone standing where you are. Take what fits and leave the rest.
Delete any file labeled as a PDF if its extension is .exe instead of .pdf.
It's a virus.
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Use a Pi-hole or upstream DNS providers instead of a local HOSTS file for more efficient and faster ad blocking.
Lookups will be much faster and it is better than host file hacks.
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Delete any downloaded file if its extension does not match the expected file type.
If it doesn't end in the correct extension, you never really downloaded that file type.
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Do not assume Mac computers are immune to viruses; they require the same security care as PCs.
Macs can contract keyloggers and camcording software.
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Be skeptical of download buttons labeled 'safe' or 'fast/direct', as they are often misleading ads.
Buttons claiming to be 'safe' or 'fast/direct' are likely not safe.
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- Avoid downloading anything from websites that present multiple confusing download buttons, as this indicates a high risk of malware.1
Look for a small 'x' icon near download buttons to identify them as advertisements.
The presence of an 'x' indicates the element is an ad.
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Update third-party applications like Adobe Reader, Office, and Java frequently.
Hackers frequently exploit vulnerabilities in these apps rather than in Windows.
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