Suspicious File? Scan it with VirusTotal’s 35 + AV’s

No matter what you’ve read or heard, there is no one solution that offers a 100% effectiveness rate for detecting viruses and malware. At the risk of sounding like the PC Guy on the recent Mac commercial, “trust me”. This is the primary reason that I recommend you occasionally have your system checked for infections by one, or more, free Online scanners.

If you’re worried about a specific file though, here’s an interesting twist on online scanners – you can have any specific computer file (files are restricted to a maximum of 10 megabytes), scanned for nasties by thirty five plus diverse online scanners, all in one go, through VirusTotal.

VirusTotal.com offers this amazing free virus and malware online scan service, to the Internet community, in the spirit of trying to keep us all safer on the increasingly more dangerous Internet.

To take advantage of this service, simply upload a file, that you’re uncertain of, to Virus Total, or as an alternative submit your suspicious file to Virus Total by email. What could be simpler?

The following graphics indicate just how efficient this free service is.

Received Files/Infected Files (Last 24 Hours) November 10, 2009:

This image shows the number of files that have been detected as infected (red) among the total number of files received within the last 24 hours (clean ones marked in blue).

Top 10 Infected Files (Last 24 Hours), November 10, 2009:

This image shows the list of the most-uploaded infected files received within the last 24 hours.

Quick facts:

Free, independent service

Use of multiple antivirus engines

Real-time automatic updates of virus signatures

Detailed results from each antivirus engine

Real time global statistics

Keep in mind, this service is not a substitute for an appropriate local defense system, including a firewall (either software or hardware), and a sound and effective malware suite (including anti-virus and spyware).

It’s important to be aware that anti-malware programs, including online scanners that rely on a definition database to identify malware files, can often be behind the curve in recognizing the newest threats.

So in addition to the “normal” system protection you have installed locally, I recommend that you consider downloading and installing ThreatFire 4.5, free from PC Tools. This type of anti-malware application works side by side with your existing anti-malware tools, using heuristics, or behavioral analysis, to identify newer threats. Current reports indicate this application has a 90% + success rate in stopping malware in it’s tracks.

Upload your suspicious file/s to: Virus Total

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7 Top Notch Online Malware Scanners

The one thing we know for sure about today’s malware is; it’s very smart. It’s so smart that it often recreates its own component parts even if it has been deleted. How smart is that?

Today’s malware generally writes itself into multiple parts of the operating system and in many cases it can hide it’s files, registry entries, running process and services, making the infection virtually invisible.

Experienced computer users’ have come to realize that the Internet is alive with predators intent on installing damaging programs, (Spyware, adware, viruses and Trojans), on vulnerable computer systems. However, the sad reality is, the majority of computer users are undereducated when it comes to recognizing the dangers and threats that the Internet poses to their computers, and to their personal privacy.

The installation of such malware invariable leads to a critically disabled PC, or in the worst case scenario, allows hackers access to important personal and financial information.

There are plenty of good anti-malware products, but no one anti-malware tool is likely to identify and remove all of the millions of rogue malware that infest the cyber world.

So to ensure maximum safety, it’s important to have layered defenses in the ongoing fight against malware. As part of the mix of security solutions, online scanners offer an extra layer of protection that’s required in the current Internet environment.

The following graphics illustrate a scan I ran on my personal Windows 7 system:

Online Scanner Benefits:

Generally fast and easy to use

Threat signatures and heuristic detection algorithms are always up to date

Provides deep scanning of archive files, runtime packed executables and email messages

Can detect malware that some AV solutions cannot detect

Avoids conflicts with existing security software

Acts as a double-check on the accuracy of your onboard AV solutions

Disadvantages

Fewer scanning options than locally installed AV solutions

Not all scanners disinfect or remove found malware

The following are Online Scanners that have developed a good reputation for accuracy; be sure to read the Terms of Use or Privacy Statements carefully.

Panda ActiveScan 2

Panda NanoScan

McAfee FreeScan

Symantec Security Check

Trend Micro’s HouseCall

ESET Online Scanner

Kaspersky

If you enjoyed this article, why not subscribe to this Blog via RSS, or email? It’s easy; just click on this link and you’ll never miss another Tech Thoughts article.

Online Malware Scanners – An Extra Layer of Protection

The one thing we know for sure about today’s malware is; it’s very smart. It’s so smart that it often recreates its own component parts even if it has been deleted. How smart is that?

Today’s malware generally writes itself into multiple parts of the operating system and in many cases it can hide it’s files, registry entries, running process and services, making the infection virtually invisible.

Experienced computer users’ have come to realize that the Internet is alive with predators intent on installing damaging programs, (Spyware, adware, viruses and Trojans), on vulnerable computer systems. However, the sad reality is, the majority of computer users are undereducated when it comes to recognizing the dangers and threats that the Internet poses to their computers, and to their personal privacy.

The installation of such malware invariable leads to a critically disabled PC, or in the worst case scenario, allows hackers access to important personal and financial information.

There are plenty of good anti-malware products, but no one anti-malware tool is likely to identify and remove all of the millions of rogue malware that infest the cyber world.

So to ensure maximum safety, it’s important to have layered defenses in the ongoing fight against malware. As part of the mix of security solutions, online scanners offer an extra layer of protection that’s required in the current Internet environment.

Online Scanner Benefits:

Generally fast and easy to use

Threat signatures and heuristic detection algorithms are always up to date

Provides deep scanning of archive files, runtime packed executables and email messages

Can detect malware that some AV solutions cannot detect

Avoids conflicts with existing security software

Acts as a double-check on the accuracy of your onboard AV solutions

Disadvantages

Fewer scanning options than locally installed AV solutions

Not all scanners disinfect or remove found malware

The following are Online Scanners that have developed a good reputation for accuracy; be sure to read the Terms of Use or Privacy Statements carefully.

Panda NanoScan

McAfee FreeScan

Symantec Security Check

Panda Security

Trend Micro’s HouseCall

ESET Online Scanner

Kaspersky

Hammer Malware With Hazard Shield

Hazard Shield jumps into the already overcrowded anti-malware application market, as yet another free anti-malware contender. On the other hand, choice is good, and it’s always a plus to have another free and effective security application to choose from.

In testing Hazard Shield on my test systems as a secondary on-demand scanner, this nifty little program impressed me with its performance. This application however, is not restricted to acting only as a secondary scanner.

Orbitech, the developer of Hazard Shield describes this application as “a fast anti-malware program that scans for any and every threat we can get our hands on. These include malicious items such as malware, viruses, spyware, Trojans, backdoors, dialers and much more”.

Hazard Shield’s Real-time malware monitor, which is not a system resource hog as so many others can be, protects your computer by removing threats before they can do damage.

There’s no question that Hazard Shield is fast. In testing, I found it completed scanning approximately 30GB in just a few minutes. It did not find any malware on my machines.

However, I have heard from other Techs who have tested this application, that it has detected and removed a number of infections missed by other anti-malware programs including Norton and Webroot Spy Sweeper.

The simple and straightforward interface is a definite plus, particularly for less experienced users. There’s no learning curve involved here. With a couple of simple clicks you can scan for threats, and remove them from both local and network drives.

Included in the application are a number of integrated tools including a file killer. This tool can be particularly important in removing locked, or in-use files. Additional tools include an uninstall manager, a process manager, and a scheduled task manager.

If you’re looking to strengthen your anti-malware resources, this application is worth taking a look at.

Quick Facts:

Light on resources

Simple, straightforward interface

Scans local, network, and removable drives

Fast multi-threaded scanning engine

Scans for viruses, spyware adware, malware, Trojans, dialers, hijackers, backdoors

Fast, easy database and program updates

Real-time protection

Additional integrated tools

File killer with secure shredder

Alternate data stream (ADS) scanner

Process manager shows full process paths and modules

Hosts file manager with suspicious entry detection

Fully supports Windows XP and Vista

Scores a respectable 4/5 Stars on Softpedia.com

Free for personal and commercial use

Bonus: Free tech support is available from the developer at any time, should you have any problems.

Bonus: Should you have any problems free tech support is available from the developer at any time.

System Requirements: Windows XP, Vista

Additional Requirements: NET framework 2.0

Download at: Download.com

Double Up Your Computer Security – Free Online Spyware/Virus Scanners

The one thing we know for sure about today’s malware is; it’s very smart! It’s so smart that it often recreates its own component parts even if it has been deleted. How smart is that?

Today’s malware can write itself into multiple parts of the operating system and in many cases it can hide it’s files, registry entries, running process and services, making the infection virtually invisible.

Highly experienced computer users’ have come to realize that the Internet is alive with predators intent on installing damaging programs, (Spyware, adware, viruses and Trojans), on vulnerable computer systems.

However, the sad reality is, the majority of computer users are undereducated when it comes to recognizing the dangers and threats that the Internet poses to their computers, and to their personal privacy.

The installation of such malware invariable leads to a critically disabled PC, or in the worst case scenario, allows hackers access to important personal and financial information.

There are plenty of good anti-malware products, but no one anti-malware tool is likely to identify and remove all of the millions of rogue malware that infest the Cyber World.

So to ensure maximum safety, it’s important to have layered defenses in the ongoing fight against malware. As part of the mix of security solutions, online scanners offer an extra layer of protection that’s required in the current Internet environment.

Online Scanner Benefits:

Generally fast and easy to use

Threat signatures and heuristic detection algorithms are always up to date

Provides deep scanning of archive files, runtime packed executables and email messages

Can detect malware that some AV solutions cannot detect

Avoids conflicts with existing security software

Acts as a double-check on the accuracy of your onboard AV solutions

Disadvantages:

Fewer scanning options than locally installed AV solutions

Not all scanners disinfect after finding malware

The following are Online Scanners that have developed a good reputation for accuracy; be sure to read the Terms of Use or Privacy Statements carefully.

Panda NanoScan

McAfee FreeScan

Symantec Security Check

Trend Micro’s HouseCall

ESET Online Scanner

Kaspersky

Regular readers of this site are well aware of the following actions you must take to protect your computer system:

• When surfing the web: Stop. Think. Click
• Don’t open unknown email attachments
• Don’t run programs of unknown origin
• Disable hidden filename extensions
• Keep all applications (including your operating system) patched
• Turn off your computer or disconnect from the network when not in use
• Disable Java, JavaScript, and ActiveX if possible
• Disable scripting features in email programs
• Make regular backups of critical data
• Make a boot disk in case your computer is damaged or compromised
• Turn off file and printer sharing on the computer.
• Install a personal firewall on the computer.
• Install anti-virus/anti-spyware software and ensure it is configured to automatically update when you are connected to the Internet
• Ensure the anti-virus software scans all e-mail attachments
• Install Web of Trust, or a similar browser add-on

VirusTotal Online Virus Scanner

Scan with 35 AV engines!

Here’s a twist on online virus scanners – you can have any specific computer file (files are restricted to a maximum of 10 megabytes); scanned for nasties by thirty five diverse online scanners all in one go.

VirusTotal.com offers this amazing free virus and malware online scan service to the Internet community, in the spirit of trying to keep us all safer on the increasingly more dangerous Internet.

To take advantage of this service, simply upload a file that you’re uncertain of to Virus Total, or as an alternative submit your suspicious file to Virus Total by email. What could be simpler?

Quick facts:

Free, independent service

Use of multiple antivirus engines

Real-time automatic updates of virus signatures

Detailed results from each antivirus engine

Real time global statistics

Keep in mind however; you still require an appropriate local defense system including a firewall (either software or hardware), a sound and effective malware suite (including anti-virus and spyware).

It’s important to be aware that anti-malware programs, including online scanners that rely on a definition database to identify malware files, can often be behind the curve in recognizing the newest threats.

So in addition to the “normal” system protection you have installed locally, I strongly recommend that you download and install ThreatFire, free from PC Tools. This type of anti-malware application works by using heuristics, or behavioral analysis, to identify newer threats. Current reports indicate this application has a 90% success rate in stopping malware in its tracks.

Make sure you understand the risks involved in surfing the “wild west” Internet we now have to contend with. Check out “Basic Computer Security Precautions You Need To Know”, on this site.

Hazard Shield – Enhance Your Anti-Malware Solutions Free

Hazard Shield jumps into the already overcrowded anti-malware application market, as yet another free anti-malware contender. On the other hand, choice is good, and it’s always a plus to have another free and effective security application to choose from.

In testing Hazard Shield on my test systems as a secondary on-demand scanner, this nifty little program impressed me with its performance. This application however, is not restricted to acting only as a secondary scanner.

Orbitech, the developer of Hazard Shield describes this application as “a fast anti-malware program that scans for any and every threat we can get our hands on. These include malicious items such as malware, viruses, spyware, Trojans, backdoors, dialers and much more”.

Hazard Shield’s Real-time malware monitor, which is not a system resource hog as so many others can be, protects your computer by removing threats before they can do damage.

There’s no question that Hazard Shield is fast. In testing, I found it completed scanning approximately 30GB in just a few minutes. It did not find any malware on my machines. However, I have heard from other Techs who have tested this application, that it has detected and removed a number of infections missed by other anti-malware programs including Norton and Webroot Spy Sweeper.

The simple and straightforward interface is a definite plus, particularly for less experienced users. There’s no learning curve involved here. With a couple of simple clicks you can scan for threats, and remove them from both local and network drives.

Included in the application are a number of integrated tools including a file killer. This tool can be particularly important in removing locked or in-use files. Additional tools include an uninstall manager, a process manager, and a scheduled task manager.

If you’re looking to strengthen your anti-malware resources, this application might be one that’s worth taking a look at.

Quick Facts:

Light on resources

Simple, straightforward interface

Scans local, network, and removable drives

Scans for viruses, spyware adware, malware, Trojans, dialers, hijackers, backdoors

Fast, easy database and program updates

Real-time protection

Additional integrated tools

Scores a respectable 3.5/5 Stars on Download.com and 4/5 Stars on Softpedia.com

Free for personal and commercial use

Bonus: Free tech support is available from the deveoloper at any time, should you have any problems.

System Requirements: Windows XP, Vista

Additional Requirements: NET framework 2.0

Download at: Download.com

Backup and Reinstall Drivers – Free Uniblue Scan

Still running your computer with outdated system and peripheral drivers? Well now you can do something about that.

The fact is, computer products/peripherals are often distributed with under tested device and system drivers, which can cause real mayhem including intermittent system crashes (one of the hardest problems to diagnose), poor system performance, or buggy peripheral performance.

Manufacturers of course, are not slackers when it comes to improving previously released drivers in order to fix bugs, errors and conflicts with other programs, (more common than you may think), or to increase peripheral functionality. For example, my HP home printer has had three improved drivers released in the past two years that have increased stability and functionality somewhat.

If you want to take a trip on the “Frustration Express” then you can try to update your drivers manually. Believe me; you’ll be in for a long and frustrating ride.

You’ll start by Googling the driver name, then investigation available drivers, many of which will have a disclaimer stating that it was not written specifically for your system/device, you’ll try it – then delete it and then your back to Googling again. Repeat the previous frustrating experience as many times as necessary and you might get lucky.

Uniblue Systems, a Microsoft Gold Certified provider and one of my favorite socially conscious software developers, who are noted in the computer tech community for freely providing, as a public service, the invaluable system tools ProcessLibrary, ProcessQuickLink, and ProcessScanner, has just released a terrific utility that takes care of all these problems for you.

(Click pic for larger)

DriverScanner will quickly scan your system, determine the drivers that have updates available, and will download and install the updated drivers which can provide you with increased system stability and more reliable system and peripheral performance. On my test bed system, DriverScanner found, in seconds, seven drivers that needed updating. Considering what I do for a living, and how fastidious I am in system maintenance, I was very impressed.

(Click pic for larger)

DriverScanner doesn’t stop there though.

Consider the last time you had to do a full re-install of Windows, (if you haven’t yet you will), and you discovered that the most frustrating part of the process was the installation of all those device drivers. The hassle you had searching high and low for the original install CD’s or worse, spending hours on the Internet tracking down those hard to pin down drivers.

DriverScanner makes it easy to backup and reinstall all your Windows drivers. Using DriverScanner, you simply backup and restore to and from external devices.

This is a great little application that should be part of your system and recovery toolbox.

Quick facts:

Driver scanner engine works via a single click

Identification of drivers requiring an update

Download of updated drivers specific to the hardware and OS

Comprehensive driver download history

Driver backup and restore to and from external devices

Triggering installations of the upgrades

Backup of current drivers and restore feature

Use of restore points as a backup plan in case of faulty drivers

Reporting of defective drivers directly from the interface

Clear and simple to use interface

This is a great little application that should be part of your recovery toolbox.

Requirements: Windows XP, Vista

Download the free scan at: Uniblue

VirusTotal – Scan With 35 AV Engines

Here’s a twist on online virus scanners – you can have any specific computer file (files are restricted to a maximum of 10 megabytes), scanned for nasties by thirty five diverse online scanners all in one go.

VirusTotal.com offers this amazing free virus and malware online scan service, to the Internet community in the spirit of trying to keep us all safer on the increasingly more dangerous Internet.

To take advantage of this service, simply upload a file that you’re uncertain of to Virus Total, or as an alternative submit your suspicious file to Virus Total by email. What could be simpler?

Quick facts:

Free, independent service

Use of multiple antivirus engines

Real-time automatic updates of virus signatures

Detailed results from each antivirus engine

Real time global statistics

Keep in mind however; you still require an appropriate local defense system including a firewall (either software or hardware), a sound and effective malware suite (including anti-virus and spyware).

It’s important to be aware that anti-malware programs, including online scanners that rely on a definition database to identify malware files, can often be behind the curve in recognizing the newest threats.

So in addition to the “normal” system protection you have installed locally, I strongly recommend that you download and install ThreatFire 3, free from PC Tools. This type of anti-malware application works by using heuristics, or behavioral analysis, to identify newer threats. Current reports indicate this application has a 90% success rate in stopping malware in it’s tracks.

Free Online Spyware/Virus Scanners – Multiply Your Protection!

The one thing we know for sure about today’s malware is, it’s very smart. It’s so smart that it often recreates its own component parts even if it has been deleted. How smart is that?

Today’s malware can write itself into multiple parts of the operating system and in many cases it can hide it’s files, registry entries, running process and services, making the infection virtually invisible.

Highly experienced computer users’ have come to realize that the Internet is alive with predators intent on installing damaging programs, (Spyware, adware, viruses and Trojans), on vulnerable computer systems.

However, the sad reality is, the majority of computer users are undereducated when it comes to recognizing the dangers and threats that the Internet poses to their computers, and to their personal privacy.

The installation of such malware invariable leads to a critically disabled PC, or in the worst case scenario, allows hackers access to important personal and financial information.

There are plenty of good anti-malware products, but no one anti-malware tool is likely to identify and remove all of the millions of rogue malware that infest the cyber world. One of my Internet friends, a Professor of University level Computer Sciences, frequently reminds me “Too much security is still not enough”. Sadly, he is right.

So to ensure maximum safety, it’s important to have layered defenses in the ongoing fight against malware. As part of the mix of security solutions, online scanners offer an extra layer of protection that’s required in the current Internet environment.

Online Scanner Benefits:

Generally fast and easy to use

Threat signatures and heuristic detection algorithms are always up to date

Provides deep scanning of archive files, runtime packed executables and email messages

Can detect malware that some AV solutions cannot detect

Avoids conflicts with existing security software

Acts as a double-check on the accuracy of your onboard AV solutions

Disadvantages:

Fewer scanning options than locally installed AV solutions

Not all scanners disinfect after finding malware

The following are Online Scanners that have developed a good reputation for accuracy; be sure to read the Terms of Use or Privacy Statements carefully.

Panda NanoScan

McAfee FreeScan

Symantec Security Check

Trend Micro’s HouseCall

ESET Online Scanner

Kaspersky

As I continuously point out on this Blog, the following are actions you must take to protect your computer system:

When surfing the web: Stop. Think. Click

Don’t open unknown email attachments

Don’t run programs of unknown origin

Disable hidden filename extensions

Keep all applications (including your operating system) patched

Turn off your computer or disconnect from the network when not in use

Disable Java, JavaScript, and ActiveX if possible

Disable scripting features in email programs

Make regular backups of critical data

Make a boot disk in case your computer is damaged or compromised

Turn off file and printer sharing on the computer.

Install a personal firewall on the computer.

Install anti-virus/anti-spyware software and ensure it is configured to automatically update when you are connected to the Internet

Ensure the anti-virus software scans all e-mail attachments

Install Web of Trust, or a similar browser add-on