Malware causes damage in the billions. One of the main gateways is the web browser. Conventional antivirus software is almost no match for the methods of professional data thieves, spies and saboteurs. Public authorities and municipalities, such as Dresden, the capital of Saxony, are therefore using the virtual browser from Rohde & Schwarz Cybersecurity to fulfill their strict cybersecurity requirement.

There are many viruses which resulted in heavy consequences and serious damages nearly up to billions. A famous example of a recent devastating cyber attack was the 'Wanna Cry' attack on the NHS which happened in May 2017. This attack used a type of virus called 'Ransom-Ware' in which targeted computers running the Microsoft Windows XP operating system by encrypting data and demanding ransom payments in the Bitcoin cryptocurrency. The attack was estimated to have affected more than 200,000 computers across 150 countries, with total damages ranging from hundreds of millions to billions of dollars.

The cause of the virus from spreading? It was reported that the NHS was using out-dated computers and software which did not have the updated versions of anti-virus programs which could have prevented the attack to begin with. This example shows how gravely important it is, to update your software to its newest version as hackers who uses viruses like 'Ransom-ware' or other types of viruses could take advantage of your out-dated software and encrypt or even steal your information such as your e-mail, bank information, and other private information you may have on your device.

Here are some tips of how to prevent viruses to be infected on your device(s): -Install Anti-Virus/Malware Software (Such as Norton or VPN) -Keep Your Anti-Virus Software Up to Date (Some anti-virus software has been probably pre-installed on your device already depending on the product you use) -Run Regularly Scheduled Scans with Your Anti-Virus Software (This helps the app know if there was any hints of viruses on your device or any security breaches) -Keep Your Operating System Current (Update your device as explained using an example of the 'WannaCry' attack) -Secure Your Network (Always have a password on your wi-fi as it can encrypt your data such as bank information. Never use public wi-fi to send private information like your bills or such as again, bank information as it can be interpreted by hackers) -Think Before You Click (Always check your e-mails carefully, there are hackers who use 'phising e-mails' to warn you about your information being deleted from your device(s). Check for grammar mistakes or spelling, professional companies will take these situations very seriously. Also, always check if the e-mail sender matches to the current topic the possible hacker is talking about. E.g thomas123@random.com (this e-mail does not exist) does not match to HSBC Bank e-mail as companies use their own custom HSBC Bank e-mail.)