Computer worms and viruses cause a great deal of damage to computers and networks.  Introducing a worm or virus to a personal computer can cause you to lose important data (including personally identifiable information) or even allow your PC to be controlled by a hacker.  If your PC is taken over by a hacker, it can be used to send spam e-mail or to attack other computers or networks.

What is the difference between a worm and a virus?

Although worms and viruses are similar in the damage that they can do to computers, their methods of infection are different.  Typically, a virus is launched onto a PC when a user opens a file attachment that is sent via e-mail or instant message (IM).  A worm does not need user intervention.  A worm can self-replicate and send copies of itself across computer networks.

What do I do if I think I’m a victim of a worm or virus?

Use your anti-virus software to scan your PC for worms and viruses.  Most full-featured anti-virus software applications can automatically prevent worms and viruses from attacking your computer.  They can also be used to scan for and fix problems.

How can I protect myself against worms and viruses?

• Make sure your operating system (ex. Windows XP) is up-to-date
• Accept automatic updates for your operating system
• Install an anti-virus software package on your PC
• Set up the “automatic update” feature in your anti-virus software
• Don’t click on suspicious attachments in e-mail messages
• Don’t click on Web page links in e-mail messages
• Be careful of the Web sites that you visit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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