Types of computer viruses

How to spot them?

Computer viruses are a serious threat to anyone who uses a computer or mobile device and they come in many different methods that have been developed over time. They can cause data loss, slow down your device’s performance, and even steal your personal information. But what exactly are computer viruses? And how can you spot them before they cause too much damage?

In this blog, we’ll discuss the different types of computer viruses and provide tips on how you can spot them.

1. Boot Sector Virus

A boot sector virus infects the boot sector of your computer’s hard drive. This type of virus is spread through infected floppy disks, CD-ROMs, or USB drives. Once the virus infects the boot sector, it is loaded into memory every time you start your computer.

You can spot a boot sector virus by paying attention to how your computer boots up. If your computer takes longer to start up than usual or you notice strange error messages, you may have a boot sector virus.

2. File Infector Virus

A file infector virus infects executable files on your computer. This type of virus is spread through infected email attachments or downloaded software. Once the virus infects an executable file, it is loaded into memory every time you run that program.

You can spot a file infector virus by paying attention to how your programs behave. If your programs are crashing or freezing frequently, you may have a file infector virus.

3. Macro Virus

A macro virus infects Microsoft Word or Excel documents. This type of virus is spread through infected email attachments or downloaded documents. Once the virus infects a document, it is loaded into memory every time you open that document.

You can spot a macro virus by paying attention to how your documents behave. If your documents are behaving strangely or you notice strange error messages when you open them, you may have a macro virus.

4. Email Virus

An email virus is spread through infected email attachments. This type of virus is designed to spread quickly by tricking users into opening infected email attachments. Once the virus infects your computer, it can spread to other computers on your network or through email.

You can spot an email virus by paying attention to the sender of an email and the attachment. If you don’t recognize the sender or the attachment seems suspicious, you may have received an email virus.

5. Rootkit Virus

A rootkit virus is a type of virus that hides its presence on your computer. This type of virus is designed to be difficult to detect and remove. Rootkit viruses are typically spread through infected downloads or email attachments.

You can spot a rootkit virus by paying attention to how your computer behaves. If your computer is running slowly or behaving strangely, you may have a rootkit virus.

6. Trojan Horse Virus

A Trojan horse virus is a type of virus that disguises itself as legitimate software. This type of virus is designed to trick users into installing it on their computers. Once the virus is installed, it can steal personal information, delete files, or give hackers access to your computer.

You can spot a Trojan horse virus by paying attention to the software you download. If the software seems suspicious or is from an untrustworthy source, you may have downloaded a Trojan horse virus.

Now that you know the different types of computer viruses, how can you protect yourself from them?

1. Install Antivirus Software

The first step to protecting yourself from computer viruses is to install antivirus software. Antivirus software can detect and remove viruses from your computer before they can cause too much damage. Make sure to keep your antivirus software updated regularly to ensure that it can detect the latest threats. If you are on a Windows machine you don’t have to worry about this step as Windows Defender is a great piece of software however make sure it is up-to-date.

2. Be Careful What You Download

Another way to protect yourself from computer viruses is to be careful what you download. Only download software from reputable sources and avoid downloading anything that seems suspicious or too good to be true. Additionally, be cautious of email attachments from unknown senders or emails that seem suspicious. If you do download something that you think is suspicious you can right-click on it to scan it with windows defender this will give you that extra sense of security.

3. Keep Your Software Updated

Keeping your software updated is also important to protect yourself from computer viruses. Software updates often include security patches that can fix vulnerabilities that could be exploited by viruses. Make sure to regularly check for updates for your operating system, antivirus software, and other programs you use frequently.

4. Use a Firewall

Using a firewall can also help protect your computer from viruses. A firewall can block unauthorized access to your computer from the internet, which can prevent viruses from being able to infect your computer in the first place.

5. Use Strong Passwords

Using strong passwords can also help protect you from computer viruses. Strong passwords are harder to guess, which can make it more difficult for hackers to gain access to your computer and install viruses.

6. Be Wary of Pop-ups and Ads

Lastly, be wary of pop-ups and ads that appear on your screen. These can often be sources of viruses, especially if they are offering free software or downloads. Avoid clicking on these pop-ups and ads and instead, close them immediately.

In conclusion, computer viruses are a serious threat that can cause significant damage to your computer and personal information. By understanding the different types of computer viruses and taking steps to protect yourself, you can reduce your risk of falling victim to a virus. Remember to install antivirus software, be careful what you download, keep your software updated, use a firewall, use strong passwords, and be wary of pop-ups and ads. By following these tips, you can stay one step ahead of viruses and protect your computer and personal information. If your having trouble with your device then Tech Bar can help you. Contact us or check out our services for more information about what we do.