Before we start, let us talk over what we are hoping you will learn through this informative composition about computer viruses. So we can start to put it together for you. There's no doubt about it, computer viruses are a scourge on the internet community. These virus programs are written by people who just like to hack their way into other people's computers and destroy their data. It's hard to understand the mindset of someone who wreaks havoc with another person and never even knows who the victims are. Whereas a so-called worm works its way through your system, eating up your resources, computer viruses are written to destroy your data. So how safe can you be against the many viruses out there, looking to attack? Here are a few pointers to help you safekeep your data. Computer viruses may enter your system from a variety of ports. They commonly enter through your browser, your email, a download or even through.ftp access, running in the background where you will never know what's happening. The hackers are always looking for a hole in your operating system's security, which is why you are constantly being reminded to download the latest update, plugging newly discovered holes. When you receive notification that a new update is available, jump on it. Otherwise, you may be the next victim of a computer virus. It's long been publicized that you should never open an attachment to an email from a source you don't know. Some people mistakenly think that if the file attached is not an.exe format, they can come to no harm. This is a myth. An.exe file can be disguised, so that what appears to be an innocent text file on your email reader is in fact a cloaked.exe, ready to take over your system. If you're not expecting that email with an attachment, delete it, empty your email trash bin and then empty your system recycle bin.

Keep reading further to learn how this topic can benefit you, as the rest of this composition will supply you will the needed information. One email attachment exception is the.zip file. Zip files are encrypted and must be extracted before you see the content files and they are still not open. In this case, you're pretty safe. How many times do you unthinkingly download files, simply because they're free? You've got to be especially vigilant with downloads. If the file is in an.exe format, don't take a chance. On the other hand,.pdf files are generally safe. These files require a reader, such as Adobe Acrobat. The reader, downloaded separately, does not allow any system commands to be executed, nor does it allow writing to or deleting of files. Nonetheless, with any download, always view the security certificate verified by an independent third party, such as Verisign. The security certificate shows that the file(s) have been inspected and are encrypted. The date must be current, not expired. Computer viruses can be fatal to your PC. A firewall provides reasonable assurance of the security of your machine. Unfortunately, there's always another hole to be found by the hacker. No precaution is ever failsafe, but if you are cautious, skeptical, and proactive with system updates, your chances of acquiring a computer virus are as low as they go. Feeling like you need help with computer viruses, or do not know how to start, then there are many free resources on the internet that can assist you.