Risks by

Viruses

jakejakayo — 2014-04-25 12:26:55 UTC

A computer virus, is a computer program usually hidden within another seemingly innicent program that produces copies of itself and inserts them into other programs or files, and that usually performs a malicious action (such as destroying data).

Worms

jakejakayo — 2014-04-25 12:27:30 UTC

Worms are very similar to viruses in that they are computer programs that replicate functional copies of themselves (usually to other computer systems via network connections) and contain some functionality that will interfere with the normal use of a computer or a program. The difference is that unlike viruses, worms exist as separate entities; they do not attach themselves to other files or programs. Because of their similarity to viruses, worms are often also referred to as viruses.

Trojan Horse

jakejakayo — 2014-04-25 12:27:47 UTC

Trojan horse is named after the wooden horse the Greeks used to infiltrate Troy, a Trojan horse is a piece of software which appears to perform a certain action but in fact performs another such as a computer virus. Trojan horses are notorious today for their use in the installation of backdoor programs, allowing an unauthorised individual unlimited access to your computer.

Tips to prevent and counter these risks

jakejakayo — 2014-04-25 12:32:21 UTC

• Regularly install updates for your anti-virus software.
• Don't open e-mail attachments without ensuring they are first scanned for viruses.

• Only download files from trustworthy websites.

• Scan for viruses on all CD’s, DVD, floppy diskettes and USB Drives.
• If your anti-virus software reports a suspect file, take all possible action before you close down your computer.
• Make sure you have backups of your important files to use in emergencies.