How to Avoid Getting Computer Virus or Worm

The internet is an integral part of our lives, and many of us use it constantly throughout the day. However, we are bearing the risk of getting infected by viruses and malware which may lead to potential data loss and identity theft.

How can we avoid getting a computer virus or worm while we are surfing on the internet?

These FOUR easy steps may help you to solve the problem ;)

Step 1: Browse safely

Avoid clicking everything on the internet

You should avoid clicking on banners for offers that are too good to be true.

Beware of misleading popups

These popups attempt to trick the user into thinking their antivirus software has found an infection. When you click the popup, however, the adware is actually installed.

Clear your cache

Popups can store information in your browser's cache, leading to them reappearing constantly. In order to prevent this, clear your browser’s cache regularly.

Consider a different browser

Browsers such as Firefox, Chrome, and Opera are much more secure than older browsers, and more customization. If you don't want to switch browsers, make sure that it is always up to date to help prevent unauthorized attacks.

Step 2: Handling downloaded files carefully

Download files from trusted locations only

If you are downloading a program or other piece of software, it is always advisable to try to download it from the developer's site as opposed to a download service.

Look at the extension

If you normally don't see extensions on your computer and all of a sudden it appears on a file that you've downloaded, you may have downloaded a malicious file that is hiding as something else.

Scan your downloaded files

If you have an antivirus program installed, you should make a habit of scanning files that you've downloaded from unknown locations.

Step 3: Dealing with emails

Don't download attachments from a source you don't know

You should never click an attachment or link in an email from someone you don't recognize.

Don't download attachments from a source you know unless you were expecting it

You can receive email from trusted sources but the email itself is not trustworthy. If the writing is odd or the attachment looks off, do not click it.

Disable image preview

Many email applications can automatically load images for convenience, but this can leave you more vulnerable, as images can contain malicious code.

Beware of odd emails from companies you do business with

A popular phishing technique is to copy the style of a company email and include links that look similar to the regular URL, but instead send you to a fake site ("povver" instead of "power", for example). These sites then collect personal information that you though was going to a trusted server.

Step 4: Protecting yourself

Install an antivirus programme

An antivirus program will actively protect your computer from virus infections by scanning active programs and performing scheduled full-system scans.

Install an anti-spyware programme

Most antivirus programs do not scan for or remove spyware and adware. you can have multiple anti-spyware programs installed at once. More programs mean you are more likely to catch offending spyware.

Be careful with USB drives

USB drives are a popular vehicle for virus transmissions, usually without the owner being aware at all.

Keep a good backup

If disaster strikes, you don't want to be left without your important data. A regular backup schedule will mitigate any damage done by a virus, and will allow you to get up and running much quicker.

Have a better idea on how to prevent your computer from getting infected by computer virus of worm? Share it with your friends to make the cyber space a better place to surf! Always remember, if it seems suspicious, it probably is!

Have a nice day surfing the internet ;)

Written By: 

Ong Yun Han

Bachelor of Public Relations (Honours)

Tunku Abdul Rahman University College