Viruses Revisited

Virus Abstract Background

A RECAP FROM A PREVIOUS ARTICLE…

In the December 27th 2011 newsletter we discussed:
– WHAT a virus is
– WHAT a virus does
– HOW a virus gets on your computer
– HOW to protect yourself

A virus is a program like any computer program – it does precisely what its author programmed. However, in this case there is malicious intent. That may include stealing data, tracking what you do or instructing your computer to attack other computers.

Viruses tend to slow down your computer due to the usage of resources, i.e. using your memory and CPU.

They can come from many different places. You can get infected from webpages, USB drives, or even cd’s. Free games either online or on cd’s can intentionally or unintentionally be packaged with viruses or spyware. Do not install these games.

The best form of preventing yourself from getting infected is to have good internet security software. The software should have a real-time scanner and update itself daily. We recommend Avast, since it is free, yet has very good ratings. Some prefer to purchase a version of Avast or get Norton, which are excellent choices as well.

“I HAVE AN ANTI-VIRUS PROGRAM, YET I GOT INFECTED. WHY?”

One VERY common question we are asked is:

“I have an anti-virus program, yet I got infected… why?!”
The short answer is: you (most probably, accidently) allowed the virus in.
Let us quickly explain with an example:
Sam installs a security system into his home. Someone knocks on his door, Sam buzzes him in and he robs Sam.
Sam had a good security system, however since he allowed the bad guy into his home, all the security in the world cannot help him.
The same is true with a virus. When a computer user clicks on a link, that could very possibly look legitimate, which actually is a virus. Since the user clicked on it, they are circumventing the anti-virus program and allowed the virus onto the computer.

“SCREEN SAYS 
I HAVE A VIRUS & I SHOULD PAY $$$ TO HAVE IT REMOVED WHAT DO I DO?”


This is a great virus!
When unassuming users see that they have a virus and a quick and easy way to fix it, they go for it.
What is really happening is the user is giving their credit card information to the ones who put the virus on in the first place!

Therefore, if you are EVER asked to fork over money for a quick and easy virus removal:
– Disconnect the computer from the internet
– Call or bring your computer in for a virus removal

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