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VIRUS PROTECTION

What Is a "Virus" and How Could I Become Infected?

A virus is a computer program that is capable of installing itself on your computer then replicating itself repeatedly without the permission or even knowledge of the user. Some viruses will attach themselves to files and will execute when the infected file executes. Other viruses will simply sit in a computer's memory and infect files as the computer opens, creates or modifies the files.

Viruses usually spread from computer to computer through either email attachments, software downloads, or the exchange of infected disks. Sometimes it is difficult to detect when a virus is present as some viruses exhibit no symptoms and cause no damage. Other viruses, however, can completely destroy all the data on your computer and result in loss of all your files.
How Can I Tell If I Have a Virus?

You might have a computer virus if:

  • programs start disappearing from your computer.
  • programs seem to be slowing down.
  • programs do not function properly.
  • unusual messages consistently appear.
  • your computer begins making unusual sounds.
  • windows appear and/or disappear from your desktop.
How Do I Protect Myself Against Viruses?

There are several things you can do to protect yourself, your computer and your files from these viruses:

  1. Use GWI's Virus Protection service. GWI provides virus protection with your Internet account. To use it, all you have to do is turn it on. This service will catch most virus-infected emails and quarantine them in your message center. You can go to your message center to read them without fear of your computer getting infected.

  2. Install anti-virus software and update it frequently. Because you can get viruses a number of ways, not only through email, you will want to use anti-virus software. You can purchase anti-virus protection programs through the Internet or in most stores that sell computer software. Many manufacturers also offer trial versions that you can download directly from the Internet. Our GWI support team recommends using either McAfee's (www.mcafee.com) or Norton's (www.norton.com) anti-virus software.

    Once you install your anti-virus program, we suggest you visit the software's website to download the latest list of viruses. Then you will want to scan all your computer files to make sure they contain no viruses. You should do both these steps on a regular basis to make sure you are always protected against the most recent viruses.

  3. Do not open unexpected email attachments. Never open any email attachment from an unknown, suspicious or untrustworthy source. Avoid opening or replying to chain or junk emails, it is best to simply delete them. Even if the email is from someone you know, if you weren't expecting it, be cautious. It's best to check with the sender first to verify they sent the attachment and that it is safe to open. It is also good practice to have all your incoming email scanned by your anti-virus program.

  4. Always download files from sites you know and trust. It is best to exercise caution when downloading files from the Internet. Be sure that the source is a legitimate and reputable one. If you are uncertain, don't download the file at all or download the file to a floppy disk and test it with your anti-virus software before opening it.

  5. Back up your computer files on a regular basis. This way, if you do happen to catch a virus that destroys your files, you will be able to replace them with your back-up copy.

  6. Scan any shared disk before downloading files. Make it a habit to scan shared disks prior to opening or downloading any files on your computer. If you find a virus on a disk you received from a friend or coworker, let them know.
What Do I Do If I Find a Virus?

If you find a virus on your computer, the first thing you should do is delete the infected file. Then scan all your computer files with your anti-virus software to make sure the virus is completely gone. Until you are sure the virus is no longer present, don't send any emails or copy any files to disk.

You will also want to make sure you notify the person you received the infected file from about the virus. That way they can correct the problem on their computer so they won't continue to spread the virus.

If you have questions about computer viruses or how to protect yourself against them, you can email us at security@gwi.net.