While Internet Explorer 8 is more secure than earlier Internet Explorer versions, it is still susceptible to malware infestation, as all browsers are. Some malware programs, such as those that harm your computer, are dangerous. Others are simply annoying. If IE8 redirects you to advertising sites when you surf the Web, your computer may have an annoying malware infection that's relatively simple to remedy.
Gone are the days when you needed to download and install a malicious program to get a virus or malware infection. Modern surfers can simply visit a malicious website and acquire a piece of malware that causes problems. In addition to redirecting you to advertising sites, malware may cause your computer to slow down, change your home page, install a new toolbar, or even prevent you from visiting security websites that could help you identify the problem. (See Reference 1 for more information on these types of problems).
One of the best ways to prevent malware from hijacking your browser is to keep the malware out of your browser. Security programs such as Kaspersky, Avira, and Avast can help protect your browser as you surf the Web (links in Resources). Many security programs warn you beforehand when you are about to visit a dangerous website. Microsoft suggests installing the latest updates to your security programs when they become available. Doing this is important because new types of malware appear continuously.
While unwanted advertisements may be frustrating, data loss and identify theft can be catastrophic. These types of threats can occur when malicious programs go beyond inconveniencing you and attempt to perform criminal acts. A clever virus masquerading as a Windows service can delete information from your hard drive, while a key logger program might secretly transmit your Social Security number and other sensitive private data to criminals as you enter it in an order form. Unfortunately, you may never know that you have one of these types of infections unless your security program informs you.
IE8's Built-In Protection
IE8’s built-in security features are no substitute for a good antivirus program, but they do help protect your browser and computer. As you surf the Web, IE8 looks for content that can harm your computer and can warn you when a site attempts to install ActiveX and other types of applications. The browser protects you from cross-site scripting attacks that can steal information and even has a SmartScreen filter that helps you identify known sites that distribute dangerous software. (See Reference 2, find "SmartScreen Filter, cross-site scripting, etc.)
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