What is a Computer Virus?
A computer virus is a program designed to damage computers, give hackers sensitive information or just to irritate people. They come in many flavours ranging from harmless to full on malicous. Those behind computer viruses often have different motivations. Some are created purely out of boredom while others may be a direct attack against an individual or corporation. Here are some of the more common methods a virus uses to infect your computer.
1. By email. The email looks like its from someone you know but within an attachment it contains the virus. Somtimes the email may direct you to a site link which contains the means of releasing a virus onto your machine.
2. By website. You download something thinking it is an innocent program when in fact it is a virus. Sometimes a pop up window may prompt you to download something. Never download anything that is not from a trusted source.
How can I stop viruses from infecting my computer?
Prevention and awareness are the key. The following methods can help keep you safe.
1. Install anti virus software onto your computer. There are many good ones on the market from manufacturers such as Symantec, McAfee and trendmicro. Some of these programs will scan your incoming email for viruses. They also update themselves on a regular basis to keep up with all the newly created viruses. If you have this software then be sure to scan your computer on a regular basis just make sure it is clean.
2. Be aware of any strange emails that you may receive. If your are in doubt then it is probably best to bin it.
3. Watch what you download from other websites. If you do download something, then get it scanned by anti virus software to make sure it isn't something nasty.
4. If you use anti virus software then make sure its defenitions are always up to date. New viruses are constantly being released so having software that is two months out of date can be enough for one to slip through the net and infect your computer.
5. Backup your data. If you have any critical information or documents on your computer then make sure they are backed up often. This saves a lot of time and trouble should a virus corrupt your machine.
Help! My computer is already infected. What can I do?
Firstly do not panic. Most viruses can be removed. Some easier than others. You will need to scan your computer with an anti virus programs so that the virus can be identified and cleaned. If you do not have anti virus software installed then try scanning online with some free programs such as trendmicro. If the problem is severe then you may need to call upon the services of a computer technician.
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