QandAs: Tech

How Do Computers get Viruses?

Answer:
Computer viruses occur when infected software

is downloaded onto your computer. One of the most well-known causes of a computer virus is an infected e-mail attachment. Even opening e-mails without attachments could possibly cause major damage to your computer if the e-mail itself has been tainted.

Many viruses that have been written (a computer virus is a computer program with step-by-step instructions) are simply annoying. Other viruses, usually written by someone with ill-intent, can cause your computer hard drive to be completely erased.

To lessen the possibility of a computer virus DO NOT OPEN unknown e-mails with or without attachments. In fact, it is best to just hit the DELETE key.

You can protect your computer from possible viruses by installing an anti-virus program. Often computer operators will run their anti-virus programs on a daily basis. You will need to be sure that your anti-virus program stays updated.