Computer Viruses: 5 Tips to Avoid the Problem
Published on 07 October 14
James1
Computer viruses have been around nearly as long as computers themselves. According to Cheeky Munkey the first appeared in 1974, and since then the malicious programs have grown exponentially in number. Today, there are millions of computer viruses in circulation, and it’s more critical than ever to make sure you’re adequately protected. Just like you take precautions during flu season to avoid illness to your body, you should make an effort to be safe and secure while browsing the web. Let’s take a look at some simple steps you can take to help your computer stay healthy.
1. Use Antivirus Software
The importance of this cannot be overstated. There are so many viruses out there today that sheer probability dictates that you’ll probably run into one sooner or later. You can’t avoid them just by using common sense anymore (although that certainly helps, as we’ll see later), and there’s a lot of software specifically designed to catch viruses before they can infect your equipment. Some quality programs are even available for free, like Avast Free Antivirus and AVG Free Antivirus. Certain people, however, prefer to take protection to the next level by paying for more powerful software. It all depends on how often you use your computer and what you’re willing to spend to keep it performing at its peak.2. Be Careful What You Click
Many people make the mistake of thinking you can only catch a virus by downloading something. However, it’s actually possible to catch a computer virus simply by visiting certain web pages. Because of this, always read the URLs of links that you’re sent. If one looks suspicious (like it’s just random letters and numbers) or if the message sounds spammy (OMG I just got a free iPad, you can too!) make sure to double-check with the person who ‘sent’ it to you before you open it. They may have had their account hijacked.3. Do Not Trust Popups
There are some incredibly clever popups out there, so be hyper-vigilant about staying skeptical. Some will even mimic anti-virus software, giving you an alert that says something like Danger! Threat detected! Run virus scan now! to scare you into clicking it, and others will say things like 3 new messages. Read now? Simply put… don’t fall for it.4. Download from Trusted Sources Only
The more things you download, the greater the likelihood of downloading something malicious. Downloaded viruses can be some of the worst and hardest to get rid of. If you want a program, head straight to the developer’s site instead of some risky free downloads website that could be run by anyone. Remember, people can name files whatever they want to; they may not be what they say they are!5. Keep Your Computer Updated
Your computer probably prompts you to install updates once in a while. This could be very much to your advantage when it comes to virus protection, as many virus creators will look for holes in current software that they can exploit. Often, upgrades will include fixes to whatever weak spots were noticed in the initial version.Protect yourself and be smart, and you’ll have no trouble navigating the digital age with your technology intact!
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Thanks James. Good points you shared.
We are depending upon the antivirus software so much and sometimes, these softwares can create other problems. I have noticed sometimes, that Outlook keep crashing or whole system performance comes down significantly. Once the antivirus software is disabled, everything works fine !! The updates from antivirus software and updates from Microsoft do not coincide sometimes it seems.
And I wonder, what about if antivirus software company has given access to government intelligence agencies like NSA?