Symantec shares tips on how to avoid computer virus infection
They don’t breath, grow or move, but they do reproduce.
A computer virus, according to Symantec’s security glossary, is a program that can self-replicate and infect files, programs, and computer systems.
Viruses could slow down networks and computers by using up their resources. Virus-infected computers are also prone to system crashes and data loss.
To keep your computer virus free, Symantec, the global leader in Internet and PC security, shares the following tips.
1. Install reliable anti-virus software.
Anti-virus software like Norton AntiVirus scan files regularly for programs that match the software’s database of known viruses, suspicious email attachments, and other warning signs. Its latest version, the Norton AntiVirus 2008, features behavior-based protection technology that detects emerging spyware and viruses even before threat signatures become available.
2. Do not automatically open attachments.
Be sure your email program doesn’t automatically download attachments. This will ensure that you can examine and scan attachments before they are opened. Refer to your email program’s safety options or preferences menu for instructions.
3. Scan all incoming email attachments.
Be sure to run each attachment you plan to open through the anti-virus check. Do this even if you recognize and trust the sender; malicious codes, like Trojan horses, can slip into your system by appearing to be from a friendly source.
4. Get immediate protection.
Configure your anti-virus software to boot automatically on start-up and run at all times. This will provide you back-up protection in case you forget to scan an attachment, or decide not to.
5. Update your anti-virus software regularly.
An anti-virus program is only as good as the frequency with which it is updated. New viruses, worms, and Trojan horses are born daily, and variations of them can slip from anti-virus software that is not currently updated.
6. Avoid downloading files you can’t be sure are safe.
Unreliable sources such as Internet newsgroups or websites that you haven’t heard of may be willing providers of viruses for your computer. This includes freeware, screensavers, games, and any other executable program – files with an ".exe" or ".com" extensions such as "coolgame.exe." If you do have to download from the Internet, be sure to scan each program before running it. Save all downloads in one folder, then run virus check before using it.
7. Do not boot from an unknown data CD.
Data CDs are one of the most common ways through which viruses are transmitted. If you are using a data CD while working on your computer, remove it before you shut the machine off or the computer may automatically try to boot from the disc and eventually launch bad programs or files on your computer.
8. Do not share data CDs.
Even a well-meaning friend may unknowingly pass along a virus, Trojan horse, or worm. Label your discs clearly so you know they are your and do not loan them out.
9. Scan files for viruses before using them.
This is always important, especially if you are using a disc or flash memory to carry information between one computer and another. You could easily pick up a virus from a corrupted file and introduce it to your system.
10. Use common sense.
It is always better to err on the side of safety. If you are unsure about an attachment, delete it, especially if it’s from a source you don’t recognize. If there are tempting animations on a site that look highly unprofessional, don’t download them.
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