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Be Vigilant With Downloads

With your help, TMU can minimize online threats.

Whether via email, websites or peer-to-peer networks, opportunities to download files and software are aplenty. As a general rule, keep from downloading or installing programs and files from unknown sources since viruses, spyware and malware can be installed without your knowledge.

Red flags when downloading

Some scenarios that commonly lead to malicious downloads should raise red flags when you come across them. Avoid downloads that can allow someone to track what you do and what you browse on your computer by being wary of:

  • email attachments from unknown senders
  • free software or file downloads in emails, pop-up messages or web page ads
  • files shared via peer-to-peer (P2P) networks

What’s more, whenever downloading, read the download agreement thoroughly to know what you’re allowing access to before pressing the “I agree” button.

Safe downloads

Of course, there are downloads that are safe to proceed with, particularly when they come from a trusted source such as software providers. Learn more about downloads that keep your activity secure on our Apply Browser and Operating System Updates page.