What are the different types of viruses?
There are many different types of viruses with the most common types being worms, Trojan horses, and spyware.
- Worms: computer code that spreads usually without interaction from a user. Typically spread through email attachments that scan your files for information
- Trojan horse: dangerous software program that disguises itself within other, legitimate software programs
- Spyware: Spreads through viruses, worms, or downloaded software, with no interaction from a user
Got Viruses?
Prevent Viruses to Keep Them Away
- Install an anti-virus software and keep the software up-to-date
- Activate the computer's firewall
- Be cautious when opening emails. DO NOT open emails from unknown senders
- Do not download attachments from insecure websites or emails
- USE COMMON SENSE! If a website doesn't seem safe, it probably isn't!
Reasons for Contraction of Computer Viruses
Many operators contract computer viruses because they do not use an anti-virus software. Installing anti-virus software is one of the most beneficial, simple ways to prevent computer viruses. Along with unprotected computers, many computer operators are uninformed regarding the spread of computer viruses and how to treat an infected computer if a virus is contracted. Furthermore, operators often do not take the time to check their computers for viruses. Between being uninformed and not taking the time to check their computers for viruses, operators often leave their computers untreated and at risk for further virus contraction.
Below are the results from a survey conducted through surveymonkey.com. Participants were asked what brand, if any, they use to protect their computers from viruses. 16% of participants said they use NO anti-virus software.
Note: Although using anti-virus software is extremely beneficial regarding the prevention of viruses, other actions should be taken in addition to using anti-virus software!
Participants of the survey were also asked if they understood the effects of contracting a computer virus. The results from the survey are displayed below.
When analyzing the two graphs above, 90% of the survey participants had some or complete understanding of the effects of computer viruses. However, of the participants, 16% do not use an anti-virus software. When 90% of the participants have at least some understanding of the effects of computer viruses, 16% of the participants is too many to have unprotected computers.
Viruses? Oh no!
Does the computer have a virus? Here's how to tell:
- Strange computer behavior
- Unexpected messages, photos, or sounds
- Programs start unexpectedly
- Emails sent from your account but you didn't send them
- Computer freezing
- Error messages occur frequently
- Issues loading the computer's operating system
- Files have been changed or deleted
Suggestions for Further Reading:
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/kb/129972
https://securelist.com/analysis/kaspersky-security-bulletin/73038/kaspersky-security-bulletin-2015-overall-statistics-for-2015/