Antivirus Tips and Tricks
1. Install reliable Antivirus software
Anti-virus software scans files regularly for unusual changes in file
size, programs that match the software's database of known viruses,
suspicious email attachments, and other warning signs. It's the most
important step you can take towards keeping your computer clean of
viruses. It runs continuously in the background of your computer,
providing constant protection from viruses, Trojan horses, worms, and
other malicious code
2. Don't automatically open attachments
Be sure your email program doesn't automatically download
attachments. This will ensure that you can examine and scan attachments
before they run.
3. Scan all incoming email attachments
Be sure to run each attachment you plan to open through the
anti-virus check. Do this even if you recognise and trust the sender;
malicious code, like Trojan horses, can slip into your system by
appearing to be from a friendly source.
4. Get "live" protection
Configure your anti-virus software to boot automatically on start-up
and run at all times. This will provide you back-up protection in case
you forget to scan an attachment, or decide not to.
5. Update your anti-virus software frequently
An anti-virus program is only as good as the frequency with which it
is updated. New viruses, worms, and Trojan horses are born daily, and
variations of them can slip by software that is not current.
6. Be aware of downloaded programs from the Web
Unreliable sources such as Internet newsgroups or Web sites that you
haven't heard of may be willing providers of viruses for your computer.
Avoid downloading files you can't be sure are safe. This includes
freeware, screensavers, games, and any other executable program–any
files with an ".exe" or ".com" extension, such as "coolgame.exe." If you
download from the Internet, be sure to scan each program before running
it. Save all downloads to one folder, then run virus checks on
everything in the folder before using it.
7. Don't boot from a CD/DVD
If you are using a disc while working on your computer, remove it
when you shut the machine off or the computer will automatically try to
boot from the CD, perhaps launching any viruses on the disc.
8. Don't share CD/DVD's
Even a well-meaning friend may unknowingly pass along a virus, Trojan
horse, or worm. Label your discs clearly so you know they're yours and
don't loan them out. If a friend passes you a foreign disc, suggest an
alternative method of file sharing.
9. Scan CD/DVD's before using them
This is always important, but especially if you are using the CD to
carry information between one computer and another. You could easily
pick up a virus from an insecure network and introduce it into your
system. Running a virus scan before launching any of the programs on the
disk will prevent infection.
10. Use common sense
It's always better to be safe. If you're unsure about an attachment,
delete it. Especially if it's from a source you don't recognise. If
there are tempting animations on a site that look highly unprofessional,
don't download them.
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