Virus Safety

Viruses are programs that are loaded onto your computer without your knowledge. They can be downloaded with pictures and files from the web or they can be attached with email messages. Viruses are one type of malware. Malware is short for "malicious software," and includes software such as viruses, worms, spyware, and Trojan horses. Worms use security holes in networks that replicate themselves. Spyware is usually associated with the download of an application to your computer. It is called "spyware" because it is often meant to collect information from you. Trojan horses are programs that claim to do one thing, but actually do harm to your computer. It's a good rule to only open files that you know are safe. Avoid opening files that are connected to advertisements or pop-up windows. If you use e-mail, only open file attachments from people that you trust.

Most home computers made today come with anti-virus software already installed. Many personal computers running the Windows operating system, for instance, come equipped with Norton Antivirus, a program that scans your computer periodically to make sure that it is virus-free. Beware of virus software advertisements on the web. These may be an attempt to get you to download malicious software that can infect your computer. Be sure that the software you use is from a legitimate source by purchasing this from a vendor you are familiar with.

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