How to Spot and Prevent Computer Viruses: Protect Your Device from Malware
Have you noticed new, unwanted programs on your web browser? Such as toolbars, extensions, or pop-ups, these could be a sign that your computer is infected with malware. In some cases, the problem might even be a virus. But what exactly are computer viruses, and how can you protect your device?
What Are Computer Viruses?
A computer virus is a type of malicious software (malware) designed to duplicate itself, spread to other computers, and cause harm to data and/or software. Viruses often spread through email attachments, instant messages, or by downloading infected software or documents. Sometimes, they hide underneath what appear to be harmless files like images, videos, or digital cards.
Viruses generally work by inserting their own malicious code (instructions) into other programs or files, modifying them so that the virus can spread. This causes “infected” areas on your device, leading to potential damage or loss of data.
Common Signs Your Computer Might Be Infected
Here are some warning signs that your computer may be infected with a virus:
- Slow performance: Your computer is running noticeably slower than usual.
- Unwanted pop-ups: You see more ads or pop-ups, even when you’re not browsing.
- Programs running without permission: Applications open on their own without you starting them.
- Frequent crashes: Your computer crashes or freezes unexpectedly.
- Unexplained changes in settings: Your browser homepage or search engine changes without your input.
- Password issues: Your passwords change without you doing anything.
How to Protect Yourself from Viruses
- Invest in strong cybersecurity software: Good antivirus and anti-malware programs can detect and remove most viruses before they cause harm.
- Don’t open suspicious email attachments: If you don’t know the sender, avoid opening attachments, especially from unknown or unexpected sources.
- Think before you click: Be cautious about clicking on links in emails, messages, or websites you don’t trust.
- Keep your software up to date: Regularly update your operating system and security software to ensure you have the latest protection.
- Use specific tools: Tools like Norton Power Eraser and Malwarebytes Browser Guard can help remove malware, block harmful websites, and filter out unwanted content.
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Common Types of Viruses
Resident Viruses
These viruses hide in your computer’s memory (RAM) and infect files when the operating system is running. Once activated, the virus can infect files you open or even files that antivirus programs scan.
Non-Resident Viruses
Non-resident viruses are designed to perform specific actions, like modifying files in your computer’s directory. They are typically attached to executable files like .exe or .com. Unlike resident viruses, they do not stay in your computer’s memory but instead execute when the infected file is run.
Browser Hijackers
A browser hijacker is malware that alters your web browser settings and redirects you to unwanted websites. These often come bundled with free software or apps downloaded from untrusted sources. Hijackers can change your homepage or search engine and might also add intrusive ads. Installing antivirus software can remove these threats and restore your browser settings.
Overwrite Viruses
Overwrite viruses are exceptionally dangerous as they corrupt and overwrite your files with random data, rendering them unusable. Once your files are infected, there’s no way to recover them unless you recover from a backup.
Web Scripting Viruses
These viruses target your web browser’s security, allowing threat actors to inject malicious code into websites. This can happen when you visit an infected website and interact with it, causing the virus to replicate itself and spread to your device.
Network Viruses
Network viruses spread quickly across a network. Exploiting network protocols such as TCP, UDP, HTTP, or email. These viruses often hide in your computer’s memory, making them harder to detect. They spread via email attachments, files downloaded from the internet, and scam links. File-sharing networks like torrents are also a common source.
Boot Sector Viruses
These viruses infect your computer’s boot sector, the area of a storage device that contains the instructions for starting your computer. Boot sector viruses are often spread via infected USB drives or email attachments, and they can be triggered by connecting to a public Wi-Fi network. Once activated, these viruses can spread to other devices connected to your network.
Final Thoughts: Stay Protected
To prevent viruses from compromising your computer and data, it’s important to be vigilant. Invest in robust antivirus software, be cautious with email attachments and downloads, and keep your system up to date. Regular scans and caution while browsing the web can help keep your computer secure and virus free!
By taking these simple steps, you can protect yourself from the damage caused by viruses and malware.