How to Tell if My Computer is Infected?

The Internet has given us many things: new, faster and cheaper ways to communicate, a wealth of information and research material from around the world, new business opportunities, new ways to have fun and make new friends. The Internet has also given us new reasons to be adamant about our personal safety and security. Risks are abundant around the ‘Net and we have become increasingly concerned about viruses, Trojan horses, worms and Spyware. Before you decide to retreat to the mountainous forest you should understand that there are ways to identify and protect yourself against these 21st century threats.

One of the first ways you can tell if your computer is infected with a virus is by the way it “acts”. Since you probably know your computer better than anyone else, you might begin noticing things that are odd. Perhaps your computer is running much slower than usual or maybe it has recently begun locking up more so that usual. These or other symptoms could very well be a detector of a virus, although they could point to a multitude of problems. One thing is certain, if you are having problems that are unusual for your system, something is wrong and checking for viruses may be the best place to begin your investigation.

Not only can runtime and booting problems be due to a virus infection, it could be something like Spyware contaminating your system. Spyware is often found in freeware, shareware, free downloads and file sharing applications. Hijackers often put malicious codes into otherwise harmless files in order to get access to your personal information. These Spyware applications can leave you vulnerable to hacker attacks and identity theft. If your computer is acting strangely, a virus or Spyware program may be to blame.

You can sometimes get an idea if you notice any unusual ‘behaviors’ with your system, but that is not a certain way to determine what is happening might infect your computer. The only definite way to determine whether or not your computer has a virus or Spyware application is by testing it. You can find many, many anti-virus and anti-Spyware programs available for sale and they are the best way to check your system for any irregularities.

You would probably be stunned and surprised to learn at how many people have viruses and/or Spyware programs on their home computers. A recent study released by a leading manufacturer and researcher of Internet viruses states that a virus or Spyware application infects 50% of all home computers, within the first twelve minutes of use. What is more amazing is that the average user can have one or more viruses on their computers at any given time but continue to neglect their firewall, anti-virus or anti-Spyware programs. Many people are naïve in the thinking that they are safe from these dangerous Internet plagues.

The importance of a firewall and other necessary protections like anti-virus software is something that should never be taken for granted. In just the first six months of this year, nearly 8,000 new Internet viruses were created. You can count on the fact that hijackers, hackers, scam artists and other criminals are in a never ending battle to compromise your system, safety and peace of mind.

Just as always wearing your safety belt while driving or riding in a car, basic software protection programs should be the first line of defense against attacks. Viruses are often difficult to disinfect or decontaminate, even with the best of anti-virus programs. As the saying goes, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”. Your life can be made much safer and much less complicated by using these safety programs. Most are available for very little cost as compared to the damage that can be done if not properly protected. You can find anti-virus, anti-Spyware and firewall programs at a multitude of places online. Another good place to find a good deal on these programs is through your Internet Service Provider (ISP). They often have security bundle packages for a very reasonable monthly fee. With all of the resources available to protect ourselves, many experts believe that it is purely irresponsible to not protect yourself against these ever changing threats.

Source: www.securitytutorial.com