opus:interactive | If These Servers Could Talk

Wednesday, December 20, 2006 at 3:18 pm by opus:interactive

Viruses

If you explore the Internet, send or receive e-mails, or save files and programs to your computer, you run the risk of contracting a virus. And today, viruses do more than just destroy files and cripple computers. They gather confidential information and share it with criminals, and let uninvited guests commandeer your computer from remote locations. Protecting your system is vital if you value your computer, credit and privacy.

Viruses, worms and Trojan horses

Viruses come in three common strains: virus, worm and Trojan horse. A virus spreads through human interaction, often as an e-mail attachment. A worm, on the other hand, spreads independently by sending itself (in your or another’s name) to e-mail addresses found on your computer. The Trojan horse (also known as a “backdoor virus”) is typically downloaded by an unwitting computer user. Once the Trojan is installed, it searches for private information—including files, passwords, logins and credit card numbers—and ships it out a “back door” to a shadowy recipient.

Keeping Viruses at Bay

There’s no single solution to thwarting viruses. Rather, the solution lies in a matrix of protection. Because viruses are continuously updated to breach the day’s best security systems, nothing can guarantee absolute safety. That said, the following steps—used together—can help you stay virus-free.

Insist that your Internet service provider (ISP) offers spam and virus filtering of all e-mails. Good ISPs stay abreast of the latest trends, employing sophisticated content filtering to help prevent e-mail-borne viruses and worms from reaching your computer.

Don’t open an e-mail attachment unless you know what it is. When in doubt, call the sender to verify the attached file.

Update your computer operating system with the latest version. Viruses often exploit security holes in computer operating systems. The older your operating system, the greater your vulnerability.

Install and run antiviral software on your computer. These programs scan your system and quarantine potentially harmful files. Many of these programs automatically update via the Internet to protect users from the latest viruses. Leading products include Norton AntiVirus Corporate Edition (for business), Trend Micro PC-cillin, and AVG Anti Virus.

Install a firewall. Firewalls block viruses and prevent unauthorized access to your computer via the Internet. Firewalls are available as software (for protecting individual computers) and hardware (for standing guard in front of a network of computers). Some ISPs offer DSL routers with built-in firewalls, eliminating the need for purchasing additional software. If you subscribe to DSL, check with your ISP to see if your router doubles as a firewall.

Avoid “back alley” websites. Sites that feature “questionable” material are notorious for hosting viruses. If the site isn’t maintained by a reputable company or individual, go elsewhere.

Beware of “free” downloads. As with “back alley” sites, if a free download doesn’t come from a reputable company or individual, don’t click through and download it.

If you have further questions, or if you think your computer is infected with a virus, don’t hesitate to call your ISP. If your provider can’t help, it should happily point you toward a knowledgeable technician who can.

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