Viruses

Computer viruses are something most internet users are aware of and thanks to anti-virus software and firewalls  most of us are well protected.

However, the people who create these viruses are constantly looking for new ways to spread them onto our computers.  They could be delivered by a trojan or malware.

Keep your anti virus software up to date when going online

What is a virus 

• A virus is a software programme that can reproduce itself and could do harm to files and programmes on your computer
• Viruses can be used to track what you do on your computer and give unauthorised access to your security details 

How to recognise a virus

If you have a virus on your computer you may notice:

• Your computer behaving strangely
• Music starts playing on its own
• Messages and pop ups are displayed
• Files may be changed or deleted
• Your hard drive has been damaged or wiped
• Your computer is slow and unresponsive
  

How to avoid viruses 

• Make sure you have the latest anti-virus software installed on your computer
• Be careful about what sites you visit and what files you download 
• You should also treat all spam email with suspicion in case it is a phishing scam.