Virus..Malware..Spyware..Adware What you need to know!

Computus Australis specialises in internet and network security, including antivirus protection and firewalls.  A rapidly increasing problem is the intrusion of Spyware, Adware and other unwanted programs.  These frequently manifest themselves as annoying popup windows, or the hijacking of your search engine results, and often will slow the computer down to a halt.  In the background, they may also be covertly sending data on your activities back to their originator.  Such programs can sometimes be as difficult to remove as viruses. We have many years' experience in virus infestation removal and damage limitation.

Computus Australis uses the latest virus detection and removal technology, to firstly irradicate any 'infections' from your PC and then secondly to repair any damage that has been done.  We then ensure that your software is up to date and advise on what precautions you can take to minimise the risk of further attacks.... contact us if you think you have a virus. 

What is a virus?

Webster’s dictionary defines a virus is a computer program “that produces copies of itself and usually performs a malicious action (as destroying data)”. “Virus” is also used when talking about worms (programs that replicate over a network or via e-mail) or Trojan Horses (destructive programs that masquerade as harmless). Computer users must also cope with spyware, adware, hijackers, backdoors, and other destructive software. These are not technically viruses, but are often referred to as such. A more suitable term is malware – malicious software, meaning any software program designed to damage or disrupt a computer system.

Preventing Viruses and Malware

To help prevent getting infected, follow these five steps:

1. Keep your firewall turned on.
2. Keep your operating system up-to-date with security updates.
3. Use updated antivirus software from a trusted source.
4. Use strong passwords, especially on your network.
5. Also, use caution before you open e-mail attachments, click links in e-mail, or before you accept file transfers.

Never open e-mail attachments from someone you don't know and avoid opening e-mail attachments from someone you do know, unless you are aware of exactly what the attachments are. The sender might not know that the attachment contains a virus.

Install anti-virus and anti-spyware software on your computer. Keep it updated!! Call Computus Australis for specific anti-virus and anti-spyware recommendations. We will install and configure protective software on your home or business computer systems; just contact us or call us on 1300 793 683 or (02) 4571 1676

What should I do if I have a virus?

Log off the network (in an office environment) and disconnect from the Internet.

Call us on 1300 793 683 or (02) 4571 1676