Computer Virus Information
Modem Fraud - Protect Yourself for Free
Do you use a Modem to connnect the Internet? If so you could be at risk of accidentally downloading malicious software which will connect to the internet using a premium rate or international service. BT offer free Privacy Online Modem Protection Software which could save you from expensive telephone bills. Find out more and download the software from the link at the bottom of the page.
Suspected Virus - What to Do
If you suspect that you have a virus on your computer it is extremely important that you remember to adhere to your organisation's IT policy. Most IT departments can easily differentiate between a genuine virus and a hoax, and their technical expertise will enable them to efficiently deal with the disinfection process. If you do not have an IT Department, or they are unable to help, research the virus yourself before taking any action. If you cannot remember the name of an anti-virus information site, just type the keywords into Google. There are currently hundreds of hoax emails which, if you follow their advice, could cause permanent damage to your computer, so, if you are in any doubt at all, ensure that you know exactly what you are doing before taking drastic action.
Virus Hoaxes - How to Identify Them
Virus hoax emails can cause almost as much damage to an organisation as genuine viruses and, in many senses, along with chain letter emails, they are far nastier and more upsetting. Rather than preying on software vulnerability and technical imperfections, virus hoaxes and chain letters prey on people’s vulnerability and trust.
With the widespread adoption of Anti-Virus Software, the viscious individuals who get enjoyment out of causing chaos have had to find an alternative way to wreck their havoc. Sadly, virus hoaxes and chain letters are two methods by which they have succeeded and, since these emails are not viruses, they are obviously not detected by Anti-Virus Software. Unfortunately, because hoaxes do not even require any level of technical expertise, more and more are being generated, and the only way to stop them is for individuals to become as fully informed as possible about viruses, hoaxes and what steps they should take when they suspect that they have a problem.
Top tips for Protection against Viruses and Hoaxes:
- Ensure that you have Anti-Virus Software installed, and make sure all computers which access your organisation's network do too.
- Make sure your Anti-Virus Software is kept up-to-date - viruses are being released into the wild and Anti-Virus Companies are constantly releasing updates to cope with them.
- Beware of any email containing attachments, particularly ones with unusual file extensions or from names you do not recognise. It is strongly advised that you do not double-click on any attachment from within your email application. Save the file first, but do not open it if you are all suspicious.
- Be suspicious of any email which says anything along the lines of 'Forward this message to everyone you know' - generally speaking these emails are attempting to overload email servers. If an email is advising you that you have a virus, look the virus up before taking action. If you cannot remember the name of an anti-virus information site, just type the keywords into Google.
- Remember that if an offer sounds too good to be true, it generally is!