SLM521SP03
3/17/03
Elective #8 Viruses
After defining viruses, the reader will learn safety tips about viruses. The reader will also read a letter that can be used when they receive a hoax.
A virus is a program that
copies itself by being inserted into other computer programs. A computer can
only get a virus by downloading or using an infected program. A specific virus
is the email virus that is transferred by email messages. This is the most
commonly known virus.
1. You should check all new software for computer viruses. Viruses can even be found on brand new software so it is important to check all software before using it.
2. To check the software you need to install an anti-virus program. Some common software that checks for viruses are Norton Anti-Virus, V-Shield, and Norton Crash Guard. After installing this software make sure it runs regularly to check for viruses.
3. Back up all files on your computer. If something does go wrong, it is important to have all your work backed up so you don’t lose it all.
4. If you come across a site on the web that seems peculiar or strange, check it for a virus before you download something. You don’t want to download unreliable sources from the web.
5. When you receive an email with an attachment open it only if you know the person and you know that they send you attachments. If it is something odd, run it through an anti-virus program before opening it.
6. Make sure you scan floppy disks before you use them, even if they are from another computer in your house.
7. Be aware of email virus hoaxes. If you receive an email informing you about a virus, make sure you check it out and make sure it isn’t a computer hoax. You can use the sites listed below to see if it is a hoax.
McAfee Security- http://vil.mcafee.com/hoax.asp
HoaxBusters- http://hoaxbusters.ciac.org/
Email to Send About Hoaxes
Dear friend,
I have just received your warning about the virus. I have completed some research and found that the virus was a hoax. People take viruses seriously, so I feel it is important to make sure it is a virus before forwarding the message on to others. I suggest that the next time you go http://hoaxbusters.ciac.org/ or http://vil.mcafee.com/hoax.asp to see if it is really a virus or just a hoax.
Thank You