If your computer is attacked by a virus or a hacker, it really
doesn't matter what type of connection you use: the damage is
done. You could lose important personal information or software
that's stored on your hard drive, as well as valuable time trying
to make repairs. And your computer could be used without your
knowledge to attack other computers, including those that protect
our national security.
If you use a dial-up connection, a few "do it now" tips can
help you minimize - and perhaps even avoid altogether - the
damage that a virus or hacker can wreak on your computer.
1. Use anti-virus software. A virus is software that is
planted in your computer to damage files and disrupt your system.
Most viruses enter a computer hidden in a seemingly innocent
program, often as an attachment to an email. Then the software
code attached to the program produces copies of itself and
inserts the copied code into other programs. A virus can result
in lost data or require costly repairs to your system. You can
avoid these risks by installing and using software that scans
your computer and your incoming email for viruses, and then
deletes them.
You can download anti-virus software from the web sites of
software companies or buy it in retail stores. Look for
anti-virus software that recognizes current viruses, as well as
older ones; that can effectively reverse the damage; and that
updates automatically.
2. Regularly update anti-virus software. To be
effective, anti-virus software must be updated routinely with
antidotes to the latest "bugs" circulating through the Internet.
Most commercial anti-virus software includes a feature to
download updates automatically when you are on the Internet.
3. Don't fall for a fibbing email. Most viruses won't
damage your computer unless you open the email attachment that
includes the virus. So hackers - people who use the Internet to
access computers without permission - often lie to get you to
open the attachments. The email may appear to come from a friend
or colleague, or it may have an appealing file name, like "Fwd:
FUNNY TEXT" or "As per your request!" It could appear to link to
a web site or promise to clean a virus off your computer if you
open it. Don't open an email attachment - even if it looks like
it's from a friend or coworker - unless you are expecting it or
know what it contains. If you send an email with an attached
file, include a text message explaining what it is.
In addition, don't forward any email warning about a new
virus. It may be a hoax and could be used to spread a virus. If
you receive a chain letter or hoax virus alert, let the sender
know so they can stop spreading the virus.
4. Use strong passwords. Hackers may try to steal your
passwords to gain access to the personal information stored on
your computer. To make it tougher for them, use passwords that
have at least eight characters and include numbers or symbols.
Avoid common words: Some hackers use programs that can try every
word in the dictionary. Don't use your personal information, your
login name or adjacent keys on the keyboard as passwords. Don't
share your passwords online or over the phone.
5. Take advantage of your software's security features.
Chances are your web browser and operating system software give
you some options for increasing your online security. Check the
"Tools" or "Options" menus for built-in security features. You
probably have several choices for what types of files you want to
accept from other computers. If you don't understand your
choices, check them out using your "Help" function.
Similarly, your email software may give you the ability to
filter certain types of messages, such as some unsolicited bulk
email, or spam. But it's up to you to activate the filter.
6. Back up important files. If you follow these tips,
you'll reduce the chances of falling victim to a hacker or virus.
But no system is completely secure. If you have important files
stored on your computer, copy them onto a removable disk, and
store them in a safe place.
7. If your computer is infected, take action
immediately. If your computer has been hacked or infected by
a virus, disconnect from the Internet right away. Then scan your
entire computer with fully updated anti-virus software. Before
you reconnect to the Internet, think about how your computer
could have been accessed and what you could have done to avoid
it. Did you open an email attachment and let loose a virus? Is
your anti-virus software out-of-date? Take steps to minimize the
chances of it happening again.
8. If you have particularly sensitive information stored on
your computer or you're planning to upgrade to high-speed
Internet access:
Install a firewall. A firewall is software or hardware designed
to block hackers from accessing your computer. A properly
configured firewall makes it tougher for hackers to locate your
computer and get into your programs and files. A firewall is
different from anti-virus protection: Anti-virus software scans
your incoming communications and files for troublesome files; a
firewall helps make you invisible on the Internet and blocks all
communications from unauthorized sources.
Turn off software features that you don't use. You may want to
turn "off" some software features - instant messaging,
printer-sharing or file-sharing - that typically are "on" when a
computer is shipped. Because these programs facilitate the
passing of information between computers, they are an excellent
entry point for hackers.
8. Report serious incidents. If you think you've been
hacked or infected by spyware, malware, or a virus, call
Tech Support at 905-685-1539 (select
option 3) and make an appointment to bring your
computer in to Vaxxine.
For a modest fee, we will run a scan and rid your
machine of all virus files.
*Some limitations may apply depending on the virus and amount of damage.
It's not always easy to spot scams, and new ones are invented
every day. If you suspect that you may be a target of fraud, or
if you have already sent funds, don't be embarrassed - you're not
alone. If you want to report a fraud, or if you need more
information, contact PhoneBusters:
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