If you are concerned about viruses and malware that could shut your business down, you’ll want to read this article as I’m going to discuss the top 5 Viruses and Malware that could cost you plenty.
Before I get into the specific viruses and malware, a bit of background is necessary. Believe it or not, the McAfee computer security company says that at any given point in time, there are thousands of active viruses infecting computers. Thousands! And many computer users don’t even know it!
As a point of reference, a virus is any kind of programming code or entire program. They are generally spread via email attachments. You may have received strange emails with attachments in the past. If you clicked on the attachments, your computer was likely infected (and still may be). General rule of thumb – never open any attachments unless certain of the sender. Even then, it could be an issue because they may have unwittingly send you a file that was already infected. Once a virus is on your computer, it can do any number of different things, including sending the virus along to everyone in your address book. The best way to deal with viruses is to install an anti-virus program – such as Avast – and you won’t have to worry about them again. Avast will scan your systems to ensure you don’t have any viruses and then go into protection mode from then on.
Another term for viruses is malware. Both of these terms are now really used interchangeably. The term malware is short for malicious software.
OK, on to the top 5 viruses and malware that you need to be aware of when it comes to protecting your business:
1. Worms
This type of virus is different from the normal virus in that it doesn’t need your assistance to spread. This type of virus will replicate itself and infect all the computers on a shared network. Worms, like other viruses, can be set up to do any number of different things from simply continuously rebooting your computers to stealing data.
2. Trojans
This virus gets its name from the Greek Trojan horse. Trojans usually enter your system via email. Without warning & without your permission, they will open themselves and will then perform some sort of irritating and costly activity. Shutting down your computer is one such activity they are famous for. Unlike many viruses, trojans can not replicate themselves.
3. Adware
This virus started out as simple pop up ads that would show up on your screen. As more and more ads were displayed, your computer would be slowed down in a big way. Many would get so frustrated, they would throw away their computer and buy a new one. Of course there are programs like Spybot that will remove these from your computer – if you know enough to run the program. Nowadays, this virus is a huge money maker because every time an ad is shown on your machine, the person developed the adware gets paid.
4. Spyware
Spyware can be really dangerous because while you computer is infected with this virus, it can track your movements and it can track your keystrokes. This can lead to stolen customer or personal data. Spyware can also be set to that it will change your homepage or send you to sites that will install further viruses on your computer.
5. Hoaxes
While this isn’t a virus, it can waste as much of your time as some viruses do. How? By sending your information that leads you spend hours checking out your system for the said virus. There are three ways you can determine if a virus is real or if it is simply a hoax.
a. Source
If you receive an email from your anti-virus company, it’s safe to say it’s a real virus that’s being discussed. However, if you get an email about a virus from friends or family, it’s likely part of a chain and is a hoax.
b. Participation
Anytime you receive an email from someone asking you to pass it along to all of your friends, it’s most assuredly a hoax.
c. Authority
If you receive an email that contains a link to a major anti-virus software concern, or legitimate known Internet security source, it’s likely a real virus that’s being discussed. However, DO NOT click on any of the links. Instead, visit the site itself by typing the URL into your browser directly.
If you do receive an email regarding a virus and you want to be absolutely sure that it’s not a hoax, you’ll want to visit vmyths.com as they maintain a database of virus hoaxes and over hyped computer threats.
I hope you’ve found this article on the top 5 viruses and malware of use. Viruses can be a very costly problem for your business. By installing and keeping anti-virus software updated and running at all times, you will greatly lessen your and your businesses chances for becoming a victim.
