How do you avoid getting computer viruses when you download bootlegs?

That's my biggest fear when it comes to downloading. A while ago I got virus by downloading a boot, and I still have scars. Basically, what sites should I skip?

Btw, I'm absolutely not asking where to get bootlegs. Rather, I'm just asking where not to get them. If that's against the rules, feel free to lock the thread up.

Thanks!

I would advise getting good anti virus software.

Asking what sites to avoid is not a good idea on here.

Where NOT to get bootlegs?

ANY website that contains the name Prince and/or includes any one of his song titles in it's domain!

I never got a virus by downloading a boot.

But, of course, I have an anti-virus software installed. Not having that is CRAZY. Especially when it's already happened to you and you still have 'scars'.

controversy99 said:

How do you avoid getting computer viruses when you download bootlegs?

That's my biggest fear when it comes to downloading. A while ago I got virus by downloading a boot, and I still have scars. Basically, what sites should I skip?

Btw, I'm absolutely not asking where to get bootlegs. Rather, I'm just asking where not to get them. If that's against the rules, feel free to lock the thread up.

Thanks!

an AVG and Spybot Search & Destroy combo works for me.

Don't use Windows. Problem solved.

Buy a MAC

jpnyc said:

Don't use Windows. Problem solved.

Nonsense, I have used Windows from day 1 of having a computer and I have never had a virus because of downloading or otherwise.

Join the dots and only download ANYTHING, ever - from a 'reputable', trusted source.

Regardless of downloading, if you're using the web, you should already want a decent free anti-virus program and be using some sort of a firewall any way - It's likely you didn't get the virus from the bootleg you downloaded (music files holding viruses? - unlikely), you probably got it from some shady website you clicked on.

I like Microsoft Security Essentials, it's small, free and you can get it from microsoft's website. Also Malwarebytes Anti-Malware software is good too.

Also lol at the 'waaaah, buy a mac' comments

[Edited 3/20/11 8:53am]

NouveauDance said:

Join the dots and only download ANYTHING, ever - from a 'reputable', trusted source.

Regardless of downloading, if you're using the web, you should already want a decent free anti-virus program and be using some sort of a firewall any way - It's likely you didn't get the virus from the bootleg you downloaded (music files holding viruses? - unlikely), you probably got it from some shady website you clicked on.

I like Microsoft Security Essentials, it's small, free and you can get it from microsoft's website.

Also lol at the 'waaaah, buy a mac' comments

[Edited 3/20/11 8:52am]

Using windows with the top security/anti virus stuff on the market has not stopped me from getting a virus.

Graycap23 said:

Using windows with the top security/anti virus stuff on the market has not stopped me from getting a virus.

You suck at using a computer online then.

I suggest not visiting all those donkey sex websites.

[Edited 3/20/11 8:55am]

NouveauDance said:

Graycap23 said:

Using windows with the top security/anti virus stuff on the market has not stopped me from getting a virus.

You suck at using a computer online then.

I suggest not visiting all those donkey sex websites.

[Edited 3/20/11 8:55am]

LOL......tell that 2 my IT administrator.

HatrinaHaterwitz said:

If you are asking where not to get them, then that would apply would want website names that boots can be downloaded. Therefore against ORG RULES.

get and keep updated a virus scanner?

AVG makes a good free one.

Also get some of the free spy or ad software: keep the up to date!

IN general for any kind of file DLing

Do not DL anything right away. give it a few days, so if it has a virus give them time to be discovered and a fix to be made. *even some reputable systems have had viruses slip in to their down loads*

Always make sure you scan the file when it is finished down loading.

also look to see if the site has a comment section. if there is a virus someone may have posted about it.

controversy99 said:

Great suggestions everyone! I'm using Kaspersky anti-virus right now, and it's working better than what I had on my last computer. Adding spybot search & destroy sounds like a good idea. Maybe it's time to brave the waters again. HatrinaHaterwitz said:

ANY website that contains the name Prince and/or includes any one of his song titles in it's domain!

Not sure if the recommendation to avoid sites with prince's name or song titles in the name was a hint at something else, but i'll keep it in mind. And my sister has been recommending a Mac for a while -- maybe the next computer will be the one. Thanks!

I have Kaspersky at work. And I have to update it myself. So make sure it is updated.

NouveauDance said:

I like Microsoft Security Essentials, it's small, free and you can get it from microsoft's website. Also Malwarebytes Anti-Malware software is good too.

Exactly the same two I use as well!

Basic tools for the prevention and eradication of virus's trojans, you name it...and there all FREE from a totally trustworthy website.

AVG ANTI VIRUS FREE EDITION
http://download.cnet.com/...contentAux

MALWAREBYTES
http://download.cnet.com/...contentAux

SUPERANTISPYWARE
http://download.cnet.com/...?tag=mncol

I've been using Kaspersky for 3 years now and I don'w know what a virus is. And I don't have to update anything.

Not exactly a fan of those McChicken toys...

Rule number one!

If you download a file, And the file has an .exe extention

Or says please instal to listen or download

Dont do it

Rule #2

Also AVOID any site that says... FREE!! Example

Free MP3 Downloads

If the site says has the words MP3 in its name ..example freemp3s.com

Dont go there!!

I've never got any virus from downloading any music, (or in any music files)

But.. you can get a virus from visiting a bad site

The only tool you need is Microsoft Security Essentials...

And for the record... there are plenty of Mac viruses out there, so LMFAO at anyone who thinks they are more secure. It's just basic math, Windows has 90% market share so overall there are more viruses, Mac has next-to-no market share so it has less, but the percentage of viruses for it is more or less the same.

Not that I use either - Linux all the way

No-one here ever downloads any bootlegs, so there is no need to discuss this.