How to help prevent computer virus infection

By Leah Reid Breyette
Viruses are a nightmare come true for any computer user. They can turn any decently-working computer into a useless piece of garbage in a matter of minutes, destroying hard drives and wiping out valuable files. People who use computers, whether for work or leisure, should know how to protect themselves from receiving these nasty bugs, and what to do if they find any suspicious-looking software on their computers.
Viruses are most often found in spam e-mails, which are sent randomly to different accounts. When the user opens the e-mail, the virus will be triggered to begin attacking the computer’s hard drive. One sure method of stopping this virus in its tracks is commonly recommended by computer technicians. “If you think you have opened an e-mail that may be downloading something to your computer, hit the power button to shut the computer down immediately. It is not recommended to do this often, but doing this can prevent the virus from damaging your computer,” says Lisa Loveday, owner of Champlain Valley Computer Services.
However, sometimes these e-mails can be masked so well that sometimes it is hard to tell the difference between a legitimate e-mail and a virus. “The best thing to do if you are unsure is to contact a technician or someone familiar with the workings of a computer,” says William Morgan, owner of North Country Technology. “If you are getting suspicious e-mails, alerts, or warnings, you should not use the computer until it is fixed.”

If a virus does escape onto the computer, all hope is not lost. Most systems are salvageable, but it takes a lot of work to get them back to normal. “In some cases, we have to reinstall the computer software to redo the entire operating system,” says Judi Latt, owner of Judi’s Computer Support. “We also put a trial version of an antivirus program on there for the customers with instructions on how to update it.”
Antivirus programs are crucial in preventing viruses from making their way onto computers. The most common programs available are Norton, McAffee, and AVG, all of which cost a small annual fee. “I had a major virus on my computer last year, and AVG really worked for me,” said Scott Breyette, who uses the Internet daily. “It cleared the virus right out of the system, and it’s done a good job protecting my computer against other viruses.” There is good news for students and faculty at SUNY Plattsburgh who wish to install antivirus protection on their computers. “We offer a free antivirus program called SOPHOS, which is available for all students and faculty here to download,” says Robert Diman, Help Desk Technician with the school’s Computer Care Services.
While it is important to protect computers against viruses so they are not permanently damaged, there is an even larger reason why taking precautions against these viruses is crucial. “Ultimately, these viruses are cases of identity theft,” says Latt.
Most of the time they need to get offt the Internet-unplug it, never put your credit card number in, ultimately it’s identity theft. JUDI