ClamAV and Bleachbit: One two punch for Linux security

This afternoon, while reading about new developments in Linux Kernel 7.0, my browser session locked up, and I received a verbal warning that my system had been hacked, along with a number to call Microsoft for help. I could not close the Chrome browser session, so I just shut down the system and then rebooted it. It came up fine, but it was a good reminder to install antivirus software and take other precautionary measures. I downloaded and installed an antivirus, then downloaded and installed another application to clean up the computer systems and free up disk space. My computer is running fine now and has survived this temporary inconvenience. That’s because I’m running Linux. I’m running Ubuntu 26.04.

Even Linux systems can get hacked, so after the scare, I installed ClamAV and Bleachbit. This temporary inconvenience might have had a different ending if I had been using Windows 11. I have been a Linux user for years and only use Windows when there are no other options like when I’m volunteering at the local public library. Installing ClamAV was easy.

$ sudo apt install clamav 
or 
$ sudo dnf install clamav

Clam installed very quickly, and I was able to quickly scan my system, which revealed no threats. I used the pwd command to make sure I was in my home directory and then used the following command:

$ sudo clamav -irv 

The scan of my home directory and subdirectories was completed in a little over four minutes, and there were no infected files. I used -i, which prints a list of infected files; -r, which ensures the scan is recursive and examines all directories; and -v, which is verbose and gives a readout of what is being scanned. Consult the ‘man’ page of your Linux distribution for additional options.

BleachBit is a free and open-source disk space cleaner, privacy manager, and computer system optimizer. The BleachBit source code is licensed under the GNU General Public License version 3. It helps users free up disk space by deleting unnecessary files, such as cache, temporary files, and logs, which can accumulate over time. Bleachbit is available for Windows, macOS and Linux systems. It’s easy to install from the command line.

$ sudo apt install bleachbit
or 
$ sudo dnf install bleachbit

In conclusion, the experience of dealing with a potential security scare highlights the importance of maintaining robust security practices, even on Linux systems like Ubuntu. Installing tools such as ClamAV and BleachBit not only provides a layered defense against malware but also helps optimize system performance by clearing out unnecessary files. This proactive approach ensures users can enjoy the benefits of their operating system while safeguarding their data and privacy. Regularly updating software, using antivirus solutions, and managing disk space are essential steps for any computer user, regardless of the platform.