Tutorial 3: Computer Viruses and How to Stay Protected

Tutorial Blog 3 ISM3004: Computer Virus' and How to Stay Protected

by: Courtney Jeffries

A computer virus is simply a program that copies itself and infects a computer. Using a code it can attach itself to a program or file and then spread from computer to computer. They might even try to damage your hardware or software also. These viruses can range from mild to destructive, much like a virus can affect the human body; some are worse than others.

Common Types:

There are two main types of computer viruses; Trojan Horses and Worms. The first, the trojan horse, gets its name from Homer's Illiad and just as the trojan horse appeared as a gift in the story, they appear to the computer user to be useful software. Once your computer has been infected, this virus becomes very dangerous because it allows intruders access into your personal files and your privacy. To avoid this virus, be aware of the files you are downloading and make sure they are from a reliable source.

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The next type of virus, worms, are designed to copy and multiply themselves from one computer to another, automatically. Worms are far more complex than trojan horses and can spread over corporate networks through email. The best way to protect yourself from a worm virus is to make sure your security software is always up to date, and avoid opening emails that seem out of the ordinary.

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How to tell if you have a virus:

• Your computer is running slower than usual
• Stops responding or locks up
• Crashes and restarts every few minutes
• Restarts on its own and is running different than usual
• Applications are not working properly
• Unusual error messages pop up
• An antivirus program has been disabled for no reason
• A program that was once installed is gone
• Disk drives will not open
• New and unfamiliar icons appear on the desktop

How to Stay Protected:

1. Make sure the firewall on your computer is turned on
2. Make sure your operating system is always up to date
3. Always keep updated anti-virus software installed
4. Keep antispyware software installed