A virus is a computer program that is able to multiply itself and infect a computer in some form of an executable code. Due to the fact that viruses are associated with destructive behaviors, the term “virus” is most commonly used to define multiple types of malware, such as Trojan Horses, Worms, Backdoors, Exploits, Rootkits, Spyware, and even Phishing. Depending on its complexity, a computer virus may modify its own code and develop completely different offspring in order to avoid detection by antivirus software. Viruses can spread via either a network/the Internet, or by infecting files on removable media, like CD or USB drives.
There are many places where you can get infected with a virus. The most commonly used technique is called “drive-by-download”, and it implies that some shady websites will download and install computer viruses in the user’s computer without asking for the user’s consent. Other forms imply receiving executable files on USB sticks, portable hard drives, CDs, , attachments in email messages, and even from peer-to-peer sharing systems (Napster ,Limewire, etc).
You can also get infected with other types of malware, like a backdoor or a Trojan horse, or different exploits for the Web browser, which provides the attacker with a lot more options of tampering with your computer, including infecting you with a virus. Today’s viruses are a lot different from the ones we all remember. For example, a few years ago, a virus would not go unnoted. Nowadays, viruses will stay totally undetected and will hide their presence. Their purpose is not to destroy documents, format hard-drives, or render the computer useless. Their purpose is to replicate, spread and provide profit for their creator.
You can also get infected with other types of malware, like a backdoor or a Trojan horse, or different exploits for the Web browser, which provides the attacker with a lot more options of tampering with your computer, including infecting you with a virus. Today’s viruses are a lot different from the ones we all remember. For example, a few years ago, a virus would not go unnoted. Nowadays, viruses will stay totally undetected and will hide their presence. Their purpose is not to destroy documents, format hard-drives, or render the computer useless. Their purpose is to replicate, spread and provide profit for their creator.
The first thing you want to do is use a security solution. But be aware that there are plenty of fake security solutions out there that are actually malicious applications. These malicious applications will tell you that your computer is highly infected and you need to buy their product. These messages will continue to annoy you until you give in and pay. When deciding on the security solution you want to use, do a little research on what your needs are and what the industry has to offer. After all, it’s your money. There are third-party institutions that test and evaluate different security products and magazine product reviews that you can research before making your buying decision.
Pay attention to the websites you are visiting. Browsing from website to website might lead you to a one that will install malware on your PC. Also, if you receive links from friends (or unknown persons) from social media websites (such as Facebook and Twitter) or from Instant Messaging applications (like Yahoo Messenger), ask the sender what the url is about before clicking it.
Scan your computer periodically. Also, if you want to see if your PC is infected with something right now, you can use free tools like quickscan.bitdefender.com for an immediate check
Scan your CDs, USB sticks and all other removable devices before accessing their files
Obviously, cracks and keygens and pirated software might contain computer viruses. Scan those before using them or even better, avoid using them altogether.
Keep your computer up to date. Update frequently, even though it may require restarts. By having the latest version of software you will be less vulnerable to menaces.
If you know you are infected, that means you’ve scanned your computer for viruses. A paid antivirus solution or a free solution is usually able to disinfect your PC. Otherwise, the software you used, which might have been a tool similar to quickscan.bitdefender.com or a free online scanner, will tell you the name of the virus you have. The next step is to visit known security companies’ websites and look for disinfection tools that will rid your PC of the particular virus it’s infected with. Most PC security companies release these tools for free. Also, if the malware you have isn’t complex, you can find do-it-yourself tips on the Internet.