Tips for Avoiding Computer Viruses

by **Psycho Dancer** Sat May 30, 2009 12:12 am

Viruses are an inevitable part of the Internet experience, but here are a few tips on how to best avoid harmful infections. One common way computers are infected is through e-mail. Click here to read about Tips for Avoiding E-mail Viruses. Beyond e-mail, there are many other methods used for spreading computer viruses. Here are some tips for protecting yourself.

1. Update your anti-virus software regularly. This is probably the most important safeguard you have against preventing virus infection. The material for this is lengthy so we have included it on a separate page. Click here for Anti-Virus Software Info.

2. Back up your computer files on a regular basis. Keeping a back-up copy of your important files is a good practice whether you are in danger of virus exposure or not. Floppy disks can be used to back up small collections of files, but a CD burner or Zip drive may be needed for large amounts of data.

3. Be cautious when downloading files from the Internet. Whether you are purchasing software online, or downloading free files you should be sure the site you are using is trustworthy. Many sites that compile files created by many users only make the files available. They often do not scan the files they are posting for possible viruses. An example of such might be sites that store photos or desktop wallpaper created by various users and made available for free download.
To safeguard yourself, download the internet files to a floppy disk and scan it with your anti-virus software before installing it. Click here for step-by-step instructions.

4. Do not share files or folders from your computer. If you must share files or folders from your computer's hard drive, be sure to only give access to necessary individuals and to end the share when it is no longer needed.

5. Avoid downloading files from internet communication groups. Files received within online chat systems such as ICQ & IRC or instant messaging systems from AOL, Netscape & MSN should not be trusted. Virus writers also tend to use public newsgroups (Usenet news) for sending out new viruses.