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How Secure Is Your Computer?
By John F | March 10, 2008
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Someone out there on the World Wide Web wants to get access to your computer. They don’t know you, and you definitely don’t know them. They want to use your computer to send out emails without your knowledge, slowing down your computer and spreading the virus to more computers. Or they want to access your computer so they can steal your bank account or credit card details.
Most viruses are spread to do damage to the data held on a computer, possibly even wiping your hard disk[s]. Then there are the viruses that open ports on your computer that allow a hacker to access your computer without your knowledge and have a look around your computer as much as they want, downloading what data they wish.
Viruses are a pain in the butt. The only action you should take, is to ensure you have a decent anti-virus program installed on your computer that is regularly updated, so it can repel most of the known viruses out there on the Internet.
Now you could go for the regular Norton or McAfee anti-virus programs. However, there are a few really decent free [for home use only] programs out there that rival these paid for programs. My suggestion would be to download AVG Anti Virus or Avast Home Edition.
If you do take my advice, then you only need to download and use one anti-virus program at a time. I personally use AVG. I have used Avast in the past, although I just prefer the layout of AVG. Both can scan incoming and outgoing emails and will warn you if a threat to your computer is found.
If you have Norton or another paid for anti-virus program and you’re happy with it, then keep with it. If your Norton [or alternative] program is coming to the end of its subscription, save your self some money and invest in a free [for home use] anti-virus program to protect your computer.
Topics: Computer Security Usefulness |