Have you encountered a computer virus or two in your time with technology? Do you want to know what they are and how to stop them?
In January 2021, Google detected around 600 to 800 virus-infected websites each week. That is too big of a number for us to continue to ignore. But what are these viruses? How do we stop ourselves from accidentally infecting our computers and our lives? You must be familiar with the different types of computer viruses. Keep reading to find out more through our guide here.
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What Exactly Is a Computer Virus?
A computer virus is a complicated piece of coding. Someone has created and embedded it within programs. The virus then spreads throughout the victim’s computer. Think of a virus as a chain letter. Once you have received a virus, it is easy for you to spread it to others from your computer. The person you send it to will then send it to others, and so on. Viruses can steal data, social media accounts, bank details, photos—the list goes on. They could even wipe your data altogether.
Different Types of Computer Viruses We May Come Across
The following list is a small collection of some common, different types of computer viruses.
File infecting virus: This virus will attach itself to a program. Much like a parasite, it will worm its way into your files and either steal the data or delete them completely.
Macro Virus: These are the viruses that are often found with Microsoft Office documents. They spread when the files are shared between users through methods such as email.
Web Scripting Virus: This little virus targets websites. It overwrites the site’s code, inserting its own. You then follow these trusted links to a place that then installs the virus onto your computer.
The Browser Hijacker: This virus can change what you type into your online browser. It deletes what you type and sends you to a different location. This new location then installs the virus onto your computer.
Multipartite Virus: This is an infectious virus. It finds a home on your computer and then spreads it to a range of parts of your system, including both files and memory.
Use Antivirus Software
Hopefully, this blog has been an eye-opener to how dangerous viruses can be. Fear not. Technology has created a way to help save us from the dangers we face. We can install antivirus software onto computers to give us a firewall between us and viruses. Any level of computer security is a positive. Stay safe by getting a portable antivirus on a USB stick to carry with you wherever you go. View here for more information.
Stay Safe When Online
Now you have a better understanding of the different types of computer viruses. Hopefully, now you will know what to look out for and how to stop it. Be safe when using your computers. Take the extra steps with securing a computer and you’ll be able to stay safe. Check out our other tech posts for further insights into technology.
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