Security software doesn't have to cost you money

CLEVELAND - When you're checking your inbox, don’t open an email that appears to be from someone you know with the subject line "Here you have," or "Just for you." It's the latest worm hitting computers.

"You just have to think before you click," said Tom Eston, security consultant of SecureState .

If you click on the link and open the attached file, malware will disable your security software. Then, the friends in your address book will also get spammed.

"Subject lines promoting a sense of urgency or sex are usually clues that they are scams," Eston explained.

Eston says there's a saying in the industry that explains why computers are always vulnerable.

"Humans are always the weakest link of security, or there's no patch for human stupidity," Eston said. 

Free software

Eston recommends Microsoft Security Essentials as a reliable and free software program.

ConsumerReports recommends Avira as a good free anti-malware program. However, there is a catch to getting it free. Make sure you always read the fine print and figure out what you're really signing up for before you do it.

Click here to read ConsumerReports' ranking of security software.

"You don't have to go out and buy expensive antivirus," Eston explained. Also, don't think that antivirus software will protect you if you click on something that's infected.

Once you have the software, keep it updated. Also, keep your browser and operating system updated. Eston says Microsoft recently released 14 critical updates that you should be downloading to protect your computer.

Windows vs. Mac for security

Many Mac users think they're safer than those using Windows. Eston says that's no longer the case. 

"You have to update your Mac just like you do Windows. There is actually more and more attacks coming out for Macs. It's just that Windows is the target. It's the most sold operating system. Everyone uses it so that's where the money is. That's where the attackers are going to go. Apple only has 3-5% market share so it's a low target area for attackers, but it is rising," Eston explained.