Virus
Viruses, spyware and malware are computer programs that can copy itself onto your computer without your permission or even your knowledge. The term “virus” is also commonly used to refer to many different types of malware and adware programs.
A virus can only spread from one computer to another when it is sent to another computer, for instance by email or via the internet or by carrying it on removable storage such as CD’s or USB drives.
A Trojan horse is a file that appears to be harmless or pretends to be something useful to the user but in fact can cause damage such as data loss when run.
Most computers nowadays are now connected to the Internet and, in office, to local area networks, helping to spread viruses , etc. Viruses also take advantage of network services such as email, Instant Messaging (such as MSN Messenger) and file sharing to spread themselves.
The best means of prevention are to:
- Ensure that you have antivirus software installed on your computer (and there are some excellent free packages out there if you object to paying an annual fee to the likes of Norton).
- Ensure that your antivirus is up to date. Simply having the software is not enough to protect your computer.
- Don’t open emails from anyone unknown to you or that has a suspicious subject line.
- If the website looks dodgy then it probably is.
Viruses, spyware etc. are relatively easy to remove with the right tools and some technical knowledge. Please contact me if you need help.