Ten years ago, you could only be infected with a computer virus by opening malicious programs stored on floppy diskettes. With advancements in computing technology and the expansion of the Internet, you can now get viruses by downloading files, opening documents, viewing web pages, and even just being plugged into a network. To keep your personal computer well-protected from the threat of viruses, you should practice safe computing by keeping the following tips in mind:
- Keep your computer protected with antivirus software, and update the virus definitions twice-a-month.
- Don't open email attachments unless you were expecting that specific attachment from that specific person.
- Don't visit web sites or click on links that are suspicious or that you do not trust.
- Install security updates for your operating system and all your software on a regular basis.
Computer viruses come in many forms and packages, sometimes impersonating other file-types and even people! You should not accept downloads from un-trusted sites, as many times web-servers infected with viruses can attempt to send you virus-infected files through your web browser. If you receive an e-mail from friends or colleagues with an attachment(s), be sure that you were expecting that or those specific attachments from that person before opening them. Newer viruses can sometimes alter the sender's identity, impersonating people you may know, and sending infected files in the guise of useful tools or documents.
Install Regular Updates
New viruses are created so often that most antivirus software companies release updates on a weekly basis. To really be a safe user of e-mail and the Internet, you should check for updates in your virus software at least twice-a-month. These updates are usually available through update utilities that are installed with the virus software, or via download from the companies' websites.
Software companies like Microsoft also discover vulnerabilities in their software as often as daily, and continually release security updates to fix these bugs. Microsoft programs like Windows, Internet Explorer and Outlook Express are often the subject of attack by hackers and virus-makers. You should check for security updates for your Internet browser and e-mail software on a monthly basis. For example, if you have not installed any updates for Outlook Express, just previewing an infected message can be enough to infect your system.
Microsoft's Internet and Security updates are available from its Windows Update site, http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com. Be sure to always install any critical updates that are available for your computer.
By now, you may be fearful of the Internet, but you shouldn't be. The Internet provides the ability to shop, chat, research, and play games online with some risks. Just know to be aware and practice safe computing while on the Internet, and you will dramatically reduce your chances of having computer woes!