Computer Viruses and How to Protect Against Them

 Computer Viruses

Computer Viruses and How to Protect Against Them

A computer virus is a harmful program designed to spread from one device to another, similar to how a biological virus spreads between people. It attaches itself to files, software, or system areas and can cause data loss, slow performance, or system crashes. Some viruses also steal personal or financial information.

How Computer Viruses Spread

Computer viruses can spread in many ways, often without the user's knowledge:
• Downloading or installing pirated or infected software from untrusted sources.
• Opening email attachments or links from unknown senders.
• Using infected USB drives or external hard drives.
• Visiting unsafe or fake websites.
• Clicking on malicious online advertisements or pop-ups.
• Sharing infected files over local networks or cloud storage.

Major Types of Computer Viruses

1. File Infector Virus – Attaches to executable files (.exe) and spreads when the file is run.
2. Boot Sector Virus – Infects the system’s boot area and activates when the computer starts.
3. Macro Virus – Targets document files such as Word or Excel using macros.
4. Worm – A self-replicating program that spreads automatically through networks.
5. Trojan Horse – Disguised as a legitimate program but secretly installs malware.
6. Ransomware – Locks your files or system and demands payment to unlock them.
7. Spyware – Secretly monitors user activity and steals information.
8. Adware – Displays unwanted ads that may contain harmful links.

Famous Computer Viruses

• ILOVEYOU (2000): Spread through email attachments and caused massive global damage.
• WannaCry (2017): A ransomware attack that affected hospitals, banks, and companies worldwide.
• Melissa Virus (1999): Spread via Microsoft Word attachments and overloaded email servers.
• Conficker (2008): Targeted Windows systems and spread across networks rapidly.

Signs That Your Computer May Be Infected

• Slow performance or frequent system crashes.
• Unexpected pop-up messages or ads.
• Files disappearing or becoming corrupted.
• Unknown programs starting automatically.
• Internet browser redirecting to unknown websites.
• Excessive hard drive or CPU activity even when idle.

How to Protect Against Computer Viruses

To safeguard your computer from viruses, follow these practices:
• Install and regularly update trusted antivirus software.
• Keep your operating system and applications updated.
• Do not open email attachments from unknown or suspicious sources.
• Avoid downloading software or files from unverified websites.
• Use a strong firewall to block unauthorized access.
• Create strong, unique passwords and change them regularly.
• Backup your important data regularly to an external drive or cloud service.
• Scan external storage devices (USBs, hard drives) before opening them.
• Avoid clicking on suspicious ads or pop-up messages.
• Educate yourself about online threats and safe browsing habits.

Tips for Safe Internet Use

• Use secure (https://) websites for browsing and transactions.
• Avoid sharing personal or financial information on untrusted websites.
• Log out of accounts when using shared or public computers.
• Use a VPN for secure and private connections.
• Be cautious while connecting to public Wi-Fi networks.

Summary

Computer viruses are dangerous programs that can damage systems, steal information, and disrupt operations. Being cautious while browsing, downloading, or opening emails can help you avoid infections. Using updated antivirus software, strong passwords, and regular data backups are key steps to keeping your computer safe and secure.