Each year the damages from computer malware cost US businesses billions of dollars.  These costs are not only in lost productivity, but permanent loss of critical business data.  Arguably, most if not all infections are preventable with the proper understanding, training and protection.  Don’t be the next victim, take the steps now to ensure protection and recovery if the worst should happen.

First, let’s understand computer malware.  Often the term virus is used to describe all malware.  Technically speaking, there are viruses, rootkits, Trojan horses, worms and spyware.  The attack method may differ but they are all malicious.

A virus is a program that runs itself and replicates itself. It can affect files or the boot sector and can delete all your data. The “Melissa” and “I Love You” viruses gained global attention.

A rootkit or Trojan horse allows access to your system without your knowledge. Often they look like a useful piece of software but in fact they are back or trap doors.

A computer worm is a self-replicating computer program. It uses a network to send copies of itself to other nodes.  Once on the system, worms do not need to attach to another program and can run themselves. Worms cause a denial of service attack making the network unusable.  In general, worms target the network and viruses attack files.

Spyware is computer software that is installed on a personal computer to intercept or take control of the PC.  Spyware can hijack a computer and cause serious problems by gathering and transmitting personal data, loading undesirable software or redirecting browsers to malicious sites.

Protecting yourself –

1.      Use a firewall

2.      Keep your system updated with the latest security patches

3.      Install and update anti-virus and anti-spyware software

4.      Do not open email from anonymous, unknown or suspicious sources

5.      Do not download files or software from anonymous, unknown or suspicious sources

6.      Do not navigate to suspicious or promiscuous websites

7.      Regularly scan your system

8.      Be sure that you have a good backup so that you can restore your full system if needed

9.      If you think you have been attacked, act quickly to isolate the infected computer and remove the malware.  Call the LAN Systems HelpDesk at 770 662-0312 if you have questions or concerns.

We suggest a three prong approach to keep your system safe: educate, protect, monitor. We offer support programs that include protection and monitoring for the various threats.  Please be watchful of the sites you visit, the software you download and the email you open as the threats to your system change daily.

For questions or to improve your protection, please call us at 770 662-0312.