Computer Viruses - How To Protect Yourself

Last Updated: 6 November 2006


Computer viruses are a common cause of system failure and data loss. If you're using email or the internet, you are prone to receiving viruses so if you haven't got one before, chances are you will one day.

Are you safe if you stay away from certain websites or pirated software? No. Most viruses spread themselves by sending emails automatically to everyone in your address book, so they reach you and are passed on without you doing anything. You can protect yourself from these types of viruses through some of the latest anti-virus software, which scans emails for viruses before they reach your computer.

To protect yourself against viruses you need to have good, up to date anti-virus software. Your anti-virus software must have the following features:

  • Regular updates - when you purchase your anti-virus software, it's already out of date because many new viruses are discovered around the world every day. Most anti-virus packages include a deal where you can receive updates over the internet for a period of time and/or pay a yearly subscription to receive updates. Your anti-virus software needs to be updated as often as possible (ie. preferably daily, but at least weekly) otherwise your software may not recognise the new virus

  • Your anti-virus software must have some sort of "auto-protection" (often called "auto-enabled"). This means that the software runs in the background so that it is constantly checking for viruses within the system - kind of like having a "force-field" for your computer that detects and stops viruses as they show up. If your anti-virus software doesn't have an auto-protection facility and just sits there on your hard drive it will only pick up viruses when you scan your computer - and by then it may be too late.

Don't forget to run your anti-virus software periodically so that it checks your hard disk. You should also scan floppy disks you receive from other people (not new ones though).

And never use pirated software. Apart from being illegal and unethical, it's a common source of viruses.


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Disclaimer: This page is designed to provide information only and is not a substitute for advice that is specific to your business. Before acting on any of the information above it is important you seek further advice from a professional who has taken into consideration the nature and circumstances of your business.

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