Computer viruses are getting smarter and smarter nowadays. They infiltrate our computer systems much more subtly by disguising themselves as legitimate files. And because too much is at stake once these viruses earn a footing in our computers, safeguarding our systems is a top priority. Close all virus entryways by doing the following tips.
* Install anti-virus software. Having anti-virus software is your first line of defense. It will protect you from viruses by sending warnings when a site or file is potentially dangerous, scanning outside sources, and cleaning your system. Fortunately, there are several anti-virus programs nowadays. Make sure to choose one that seems to be the most credible. Some virus protection programs can be downloaded for free, while others are available for a fee. Regularly update your software, as viruses “mutate” pretty quickly. If possible, install two anti-virus programs in your computer.
* Install a firewall. Your computer has a built-in firewall, but it can’t guarantee complete protection. So to prevent data from entering and exiting the system without your permission, make sure to download and install a credible firewall. Look for options on the Internet.
* Exercise caution when opening email attachments. Computer viruses are oftentimes embedded in email attachments. If you receive one from a stranger, chances are great it is not a legitimate file and is virus-embedded. Delete it at once. If, however, the attachment unexpectedly came from someone you truly know, be very cautious. It could be that that person’s computer is virus-infected and sends attachments to email addresses randomly. Best to confirm it with that person if the file is legitimate. In any case, take a look at the attachment’s file extension. If it ends with extensions like .dll, .bat, .ocx, .lnk, .eml, .nws, .exe, .vbs, .scr, and .shs, do not open the attachment. Delete it immediately instead.
* Browse the Internet cautiously. Although the Internet has plenty of uses, many ill-minded people use it to spread viruses. This is why you need to be very careful when on the Internet. Avoid visiting websites you are not very familiar with and never download anything from them. In case you need to download a picture, music, or any other kind of file, make sure to go to a credible, virus-free website.
* Activate your security update setting. When this is activated, your OS will regularly send you security updates. This will enable your security features to detect newer viruses and alert you if they attempt to infiltrate your system.
* Scan storage devices. If you need to use USBs, CDs, and memory sticks using your computer, take some time to thoroughly scan and clean them of viruses. This especially applies if you share the computer with someone else.
Always make backup copies for your files just in case. This prevents you from starting from scratch in the unfortunate event you lose all your files to a virus. Make sure to update the backup copies as frequently as you update the original files. But the very reason we are discussing virus protection here is to prevent such incident to happen, so make sure to follow the mentioned tips.
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