When a virus infiltrates an online system the consequences can be catastrophic, from a loss of critical data to complete network breakdown. It’s important that you are aware of how viruses and malwares infiltrate systems so that you know how to minimize the risk for your organisation.
Spam email is one of the most common ways for viruses to gain access to your systems. Spam emails will often contain attachments or links. Avoid opening attachments or clicking on links from unknown sources.
You might receive an email from an address you know but the message seems strange and is requesting you download an attachment or follow a link. Don’t make the mistake of trusting this email simply because you think you know the source. The virus may have already infiltrated their system and is now spreading without them knowing!
Bad Links
You’ll often find bad links on all kinds of websites and online adverts. They may be cleverly disguised as something you’re looking for such as a website, a download or even a fake virus alert. While a bad link might tell you it’s going to download a useful piece of software it will in fact download a virus.
Anyone who uses your computer system should be aware of the threat of viruses and act accordingly. Follow our tips to minimise the risk of a virus infiltrating your system.
- Ensure your operating system software is up to date
- Don’t open unsolicited email or message attachments or click on suspicious links
- Be wary of fake virus alerts
- Never click on links appearing in pop-ups or other online adverts, if you should accidentally click on one make sure you cancel any download prompts and cross off any windows that appear
- Adjust the security settings of your web browser
- Always read privacy policies and End User License Attachments before downloading any software
- Backup your data and files regularly so that you can reboot your system should it be necessary
- Install a scalable anti-spam security software such as MailCleaner. Discover how MailCleaner can offer virus protection and defend your business from other threats for your company.