Everybody has one friend who bombards them with emails containing hilarious pictures, jokes, and videos.

Most of them are relatively funny – if you have not already seen them six or seven times – but sometimes these emails can contain viruses and other harmful programs called malware and adware.

Viruses, malware, adware – no matter what they are called, these programs are designed to cause damage – from corrupting files on your hard drive to stealing sensitive information to degrading the performance of your computer.

How do they work?

Once an infected file gains access to your computer, it replicates itself and follows its pre-programmed script.

A virus classified as malware is intrusive software that invades your computer and, in many cases, sends back sensitive information to the creators of the program or uses your computer to send out additional spam looking like its from you. This could include passwords and financial data.

Another type of malware is called adware. After installing itself on your computer, you will receive constant pop up ads from the program. In addition to being incredibly annoying, adware programs can relay sensitive information to its designers.

What can you do?

So how do you keep your computer virus free? Here are several basic steps.

1. Update your browser and computer’s operating systems. These updates contain vital patches designed to foil the latest viruses, malware, and adware.
2. If you are using Windows, you should already be running Windows Defender. This robust program is not only a virus scanner; it does double duty by preventing spyware from invading your computer.
3. Create a standard profile for your everyday computer use. With Windows, access the Control Panel and select User Accounts. This will allow you to create an everyday profile that reduces the chances of your entire hard drive becoming infected.
4. If you receive an email that looks suspicious, even if it is from a friend, do not open it. Delete the email and then alert your IT department so they have a record of the email.
5. Download one of the many free virus scan programs onto your computer. These include MS AV Scanner, SuperAntispyware, MalwareBytes, BitDefender Online Scanner, and Kaspersky Online Scanner to name a few.

These steps should provide your computer with a basic defense against viruses, malware, and adware. While these are good habits to have, and encourage amongst your coworkers, there are companies who can install anti-virus software solutions that are highly reliable and effective.

If you are interested in having someone review your current network, and workstations, call us. As a full-service IT company, we can conduct a full system scan, remove viruses and other unwanted programs, and then install the right software solution to keep your computers running at their full potential.

For more information, contact us today at 410-453-9300.