Don't Wait for a Breach to Wake up your Defences.
Start implementing these 10 simple steps today to protect your business, your data, and your peace of mind.
🔐 Which step should you tackle first?
Interested in our Cybersecurity Framework?
Visit our article on how to organise an effective cybersecurity strategy to download a copy of our framework.
Is your Device Holding you Back?
From sluggish performance to security risks, the signs are there. Discover whether it’s time to upgrade—and unlock a smoother, safer digital experience. Is it time to say goodbye to your old tech?
Malware is malicious software designed to compromise your devices—whether it’s a computer, phone, or tablet. It can slow performance, disrupt operations, and even steal sensitive information, including donor or beneficiary data.
For charities, the impact can be especially damaging. Knowing how to identify and respond to hidden malware is essential to protecting your organisation and maintaining trust.
Here are key signs to watch for—and how to stay ahead of potential threats.
What is Malware?
The term “malware” stands for “malicious software”—programs specifically designed to damage, disrupt, or gain unauthorised access to devices and data. Often developed by cybercriminals, malware can take many forms, each with the potential to compromise sensitive information and interrupt operations.
Understanding the different types of malware is an important step in protecting your charity’s digital environment and safeguarding the trust of your donors and beneficiaries.
Viruses
Computer viruses are a type of malware designed to spread between devices, often without the user’s knowledge. They can corrupt or delete important files and significantly degrade system performance, leading to operational disruptions and potential data loss.
Trojans
Trojans are malicious programs that disguise themselves as legitimate software to deceive users. Once installed, they can enable unauthorised access, steal sensitive information, or create vulnerabilities within your system.
Ransomware
Ransomware is a type of malicious software that encrypts your files, rendering them inaccessible. Attackers then demand a ransom payment in exchange for restoring access to the data, often putting sensitive information and operations at serious risk.
How Does Malware Get on Your Device?
Malware can gain access to your device in several ways:
Downloading Malicious Files
You can easily download a file that has malware in it, be careful what you click on!
Visiting Compromised Websites
Certain websites put malware on your device when you visit them.
Opening Deceptive Emails
Hackers can send emails with malware attached. Don’t open emails from people you don’t know.
What Are Signs of Hidden Malware?
Malware can be deceptive. But there are some signs to look out for:
Sluggish Device
If your device is performing slowly, it may have malware.
Suspicious Pop-ups
Malware may be draining your battery.
High Data Usage
If your internet speeds seem slower or you are using more data than normal, it may be malware.
How Can You Check for Malware?
There are several ways to search for malware on your device:
Use Antivirus Software
Antivirus software scans your device for malicious programs and threats. It is designed to detect, quarantine, and remove harmful software, helping to protect your systems and data from compromise.
Check Your Apps
Look at all the apps on your device. Delete any that you don’t remember installing.
Look at Task Manager
On a computer, open Task Manager. Look for programs that are consuming lots of resources or have suspicious names.
Check Your Browser
Check your browser extensions. Remove any that you do not use or recognise.
What to Do If You Discover Malware?
If you think you have malware, don’t panic! Here is what you should do:
Run a Full Scan
Use your antivirus to run a full scan of your device.
Update Your Software
Make sure all of your programs and your operating system are current.
Change Your Passwords
Change the passwords to all your valuable accounts.
Backup Your Data
Back your important files up to a safe location, such as a cloud service.
How to Avoid Malware?
It is better not to let malware onto your device at all. Here’s how:
Keep Everything Up-to-Date
Keep your operating system and applications updated at all times.
Be Careful What You Click On
Avoid clicking on any link or downloading a file unless you are sure it is safe.
Use Strongs Passwords
Make your passwords long and hard to guess. Use different passwords for each account.
Use Antivirus Software
Maintain effective antivirus software on your device and run scans regularly.