Is Your Computer Acting Sluggish? It Could Be Infected with a Virus or Worm
If your computer is running slow, programs are failing to open, and you can’t access anything, it might be suffering from a computer virus or internet worm. Just like humans get sick from viruses, computers can get "infected" too. This guide will help you understand the difference between viruses and worms, how they work, and how to protect your system from these malicious threats.
If your system has been infected, you may need to consult a computer technician to remove the virus, or you can perform this task yourself if you're tech-savvy.
What Is a Computer Virus?
A computer virus is a malicious program designed to infect your computer without your consent. It is often referred to as parasitic because it attaches itself to files or boot sectors and replicates to spread across the system. While some viruses do minimal damage, others can slow down your computer, corrupt files, and compromise your data.
Types of Computer Viruses
Computer viruses are categorized based on the method they use to infect systems:
- Program Viruses: These viruses attach to executable files (e.g., .EXE, .COM, .SYS) and activate when you run the infected program.
- Boot Sector Viruses: These viruses infect the boot record or partition table, making it difficult for the system to start up properly.
- Multipartite Viruses: These are a combination of program and boot sector viruses, infecting both executable files and system startup areas.
What Is a Trojan Horse?
A Trojan Horse is a type of malware that disguises itself as a harmless or legitimate program. While it may look like a useful application, it hides a more destructive function. Trojans can enter your system through various sources like emails, downloads, or even infected USB drives.
For example, a Trojan might appear as a fun game demo but could secretly format your hard disk or send out harmful emails from your account.
Common Trojan Examples
- Notroj: A Trojan that pretends to guard against other Trojans but secretly wipes out your hard disk when it’s almost full.
- PWSteal: A Trojan that steals sensitive online banking information from web forms.
- PWSteal.Likmet: A Trojan that displays a fake login screen to steal your MSN Messenger password.
- Run.me: A Trojan masquerading as a graphic program that plays the Star-Spangled Banner while secretly erasing your hard drive.
What Is an Internet Worm?
An internet worm is a self-replicating program that spreads across a network or system without needing a host program. Unlike viruses, worms don't require an executable file to run. They propagate automatically by exploiting vulnerabilities in networked systems. Worms can cause significant damage, often slowing down networks or corrupting data.
Example Worms
- Alarm Clock Worm: This worm reaches out through the network and places wake-up calls to users via modems.
- Worm Watcher: A special program that detects and controls worm growth, shutting it down once it surpasses a certain size.
How to Protect Your Computer from Viruses and Worms
To safeguard your computer against viruses and worms, follow these simple steps:
- Install Antivirus Software: Use trusted antivirus software and keep it updated regularly to identify and remove potential threats.
- Enable Firewall Protection: A firewall acts as a barrier between your computer and the internet, blocking malicious traffic.
- Be Cautious with Downloads: Only download files from trusted websites. Scan files for viruses before opening them, especially if they're from unfamiliar sources.
- Avoid Suspicious Emails: Never open email attachments from unknown sources, and be cautious of links that could lead to infected sites.
- Regular Backups: Regularly back up important files to an external drive or cloud storage to protect your data in case of an infection.
- Update Software: Keep your operating system and software up to date to patch security vulnerabilities that worms and viruses can exploit.
Conclusion: Stay Safe from Viruses and Worms
Both computer viruses and internet worms can cause significant damage to your system and data. Understanding the differences between them and taking the necessary precautions can help you keep your computer safe from these malicious threats. Regularly updating antivirus software, being cautious of suspicious emails, and practicing safe browsing habits are key to protecting your system from infections.
By staying informed and taking action, you can ensure your system remains secure, even as new viruses and worms emerge daily.