Popular Questions


 

If my computer is turned off, can it become infected by a virus?

No. But a virus could still be dormant inside your computer, waiting for certain 'trigger' conditions (such as a specific date) to activate and release its payload.

 

If a virus reaches my computer, does that mean it is infected?
 

Not necessarily: Just because a virus has entered, doesn't mean that it has activated.

However there are certain viruses that can infect a computer simply when the message carrying it is opened or even when the message is viewed through the Preview Pane.

What effects can viruses have?

Viruses have a wide range of effects, from complete destruction of all data on your computer to running small joke programs with little or no damaging effects.

 

Why are the numbers of viruses and infections increasing?
 

Mostly because an ever increasing number of users are interconnected via the Internet or other networks and this creates a major channel for the spread of viruses.  Virus programmers are also using ever more sophisticated techniques to create viruses and more cunning ploys to trick users. Also, vulnerabilities in commonly used software are now being exploited by virus authors as a means by which they can spread malicious code.

 

Who creates viruses?
 

Virus authors are mostly people looking for some kind of social recognition or notoriety.  Their principal objectives are to exploit whatever possible means such as security holes, user naivety, new technology etc. to ensure their creations spread as widely as possible.

Why is my computer so slow, I only bought it last year?

Your computer is most likely loaded down with spyware and viruses.  Unfortunately, when you're surfing the Internet, spyware or Malware is frequently automatically downloaded on to your computer unbeknownst to you!


Why does my PC get infected with spyware because I do have updated anti-virus software?
 

Anti-virus software will not help protect you from spyware.   You need an anti-spyware program such as Ad-Aware SE or Spybot S & D to rid your computer of Spyware.  Additionally, Spybot S & D has an 'Immunise' function which protects your computer from an extensive database of "known bad products". These two programs are free and are the best free anti-spyware programs to use.


Why can't I get this spyware off my computer?

In some cases you won't be able to totally remove certain spyware off your computer unless you format the hard drive & re-install your opertating system.   Alternatively, you could seek professional assistance from a reputable PC technician. Unfortunately, the spyware advertisers are very actively creating new strains almost on a daily basis.


Can I trust my resident anti-virus program to find any and every virus?
 

No, you should never totally rely on one anti-virus program alone.   If you suspect that you have a virus, you should run a full system scan with you resident anti-virus program then run an online anti-virus scan using one or two of the free online scanners found on my Links Page. 

 

How often should I defrag my hard drive?
 

There is no set timeframe, however, once a month for the average user is a good guide.