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Reference number: CH001045
How does a computer get infected with a virus or spyware?
Question:
How does a computer get infected with a virus or spyware?
Answer:
There are literally dozens of different ways a computer can
become infected with spyware, viruses, and other malware. Below is a
list of the most commonly ways a computer can contract these
infections listed in order we believe are most commonly done.
Tip: All people who use the computer should be
aware of how to properly use the computer and protect it from
malicious software.
Accepting without reading
By far one of the most common ways a computer becomes
infected is the user simply accepts what he or she sees on the
screen without reading the prompt and/or understand what it's
asking.
Some common examples:
- While browsing the Internet an Internet advertisement or
window appears that says your computer is infected and/or that a
unique plug-in is required. Without fully understanding what it
is you're getting you accept the prompt.
- When installing a program or update that program you're
prompted (often checkboxes already checked) if it's ok to
install additional programs that you may not want or are
designed to monitor your usage of the program.
Opening e-mail attachments
Another very common way people become infected with
viruses and other spyware is by opening
e-mail attachments, even when
from a co-worker, friend, or family member. E-mail addresses can be easily
faked and even when not faked your acquaintance may be
unsuspectingly forwarding you an infected file.
When receiving an e-mail with an attachment if the
e-mail was not expected or from someone you don't know simply delete
it. If the e-mail is from someone you know be cautious opening the
attachment.
Not running the latest updates
Many of the updates, especially those associated with
Microsoft Windows and other operating systems and programs are
security updates. Running a program or operating system that is not
up-to-date with the latest updates can be a big security risk and
can be a way your computer becomes infected.
Microsoft Windows users can find information about
how to update Windows on document CH000545.
In addition to running operating system updates, the plugins associated with your browser can often contain security vulnerabilities. Make sure you have the latest versions of plugins. Click here to view installed plugins and their versions.
Pirating software, music and/or movies
If you or someone on your computer is participating
in underground places on the Internet where you're downloading
copyrighted music, movies, software, etc. for free. Often many of
the files can contain viruses, spyware and/or malicious software.
No anti-virus spyware scanner
If you're running a computer with Microsoft Windows
it's highly recommended you have some form of anti-virus and
spyware protection on that computer to help clean it from any
infections currently on the computer and to help prevent any future
infections.
Downloading infected software
Finally, downloading any other software from the
Internet can also contain viruses and other malware. When
downloading any type of software (programs, utilities, games,
updates, demos, etc.) make sure you're download the software from a
reliable source and that while installing it you're reading all
prompts about what the program is putting on your computer.
Additional information:
- See our virus,
spyware, and/or
malware dictionary
definition for additional information about each of these terms
and related links.
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