Malicious software, “malware,” can take many shapes – from viruses that infect your favorite devices to spyware and adware that track your online activities
What to Look For
You may be able to tell when malware has been installed on your device. Symptoms include:
- Sluggish or choppy performance
- A barrage of unwanted pop-up ads
- New and unfamiliar toolbar icons
- Unauthorized account access or signs of fraud
How to Help Protect Yourself
These tips will help protect you and your devices from malware:
- Install and regularly update anti-virus and anti-spyware programs. For mobile devices, be sure that you connect your device to a private computer or network, versus public ones.
- Uninstall unused apps.
- Be careful connecting to Wi-Fi. Make sure it is a secured network and do not provide personal information or conduct transactions on public Wi-Fi. Requiring a password to access a public Wi-Fi does not guarantee that service is secured. In fact, in most cases it is not.
- When downloading free software like games or peer-to-peer file-sharing programs, be aware that spyware can be bundled in.
- Regularly back up your devices to avoid information loss.
- Set up a screen lock after prolonged inactivity.
- Be sure to enable/maximize security measures on your device. Also, there are tools that can help. For example, with the free and easy-to-use AT&T ActiveArmor℠ mobile security app you can flag, block or send spam and all other nuisance calls to voicemail, and more.
- Carefully read user agreements for a description of what you’re downloading and how the other party will be using your information.
AT&T Internet Security Suite
AT&T High Speed Internet customers can help protect themselves and their PCs with the AT&T Internet Security Suite powered by McAfee. This suite is free to qualified customers and includes anti-virus, anti-spyware and firewall protection so you can surf, search and transact online with confidence. Learn more.
Reporting Fraud
Fraudsters can try to take advantage of you by phone, email, text or social media. If you think a caller is trying to scam you, hang up. If you get a suspicious email or text, do not reply. If you suspect you are a target of fraud on your AT&T mobile phone account, you can report it to our Fraud team here. If you suspect fraud on another account, call the customer service number on your bill for help.
You may also report suspicious activity to the FTC and Anti-phishing working group.
To find out more about reporting fraud, check out our Resources page.