Given the status of the Covid-19 pandemic, one can see that now more than ever before, people are more connected and reliant on the internet and they continue to remain so. Through mobiles, tablets, computers and laptops, people are looking to get connected and stay connected. However, with cyberthreats, like ransomware, malware, and viruses, people and even businesses can’t afford the risk of leaving their networks and their data unsecured and unprotected.
One of the most misunderstood occurrences with a computer is a virus.
If you’ve shared the thought that maybe your devices should have some type of antivirus protection, the short answer is yes. Make no mistake, viruses and cyberthreats are real, and every computer is vulnerable to attacks. To put it simply, a virus has the capability to make copies of itself that can spread to other computers, of which in this part, can make further copies of itself. Viruses differ to each other in that each virus can attack in a different way to the other. One can be created to send an email to everyone in your address book, wipe out all your data on your computer, or even send messages on your social media platforms.
Common types of cyber threats can be found not only in computers, but mobile phones and any other internet connected devices.
Malware: Malicious Software (Malware) is an umbrella term that refers to a wide range of damaging software that is designed to be harmful or carry out malicious and unwanted actions to a computer, or computer network. This is commonly known as a virus as well as spyware and trojan horses. Malware has the capability to destroy, delete and crash your device and the files on it.
A type of malware known is spyware which attaches and hides itself within your computer and without your permission can make changes to your device. This can affect how you use your device and the overall productivity. As it says in its name it can quite simply ‘spy’ on your activity and generate unwanted advertisements and browser displays on your online web activity. It has the ability to encourage your browser to display certain websites and search results.
Typically, a virus masquerades itself as something else.
This can be an unprotected email with an interesting email attachment such as instructions to win R 1 000 000 or even a bright and jumpy link on your web browser encouraging you to download pictures or “never before seen” photos of your favourite celebrities. Once these links are opened/ downloaded, the virus springs to life and copies itself onto the user’s computer. Once on the device, the virus can figure out how to spread itself across the computer and even shared networks.
This kind of masqueraded virus or scam can also be known as phishing. It is mostly linked to fraudulent websites and emails that can trick you into giving your personal or financial information. As a result, money can be stolen, or a personal account can be compromised. This type of scam is seen when an email or message is received claiming errors in your account, trouble with your payment options or that suspicious activity has been noticed on your account. A link will be provided where your personal information will be uploaded, and this is where users can fall for the trick.
Therefore, one must ensure that they have the correct and most suited infrastructure protection on their computers, networks, and devices.
Caution and common sense can only go so far in keeping your computer and devices safe, there is much more that is needed to keep them protected. There is always room for human error which is why antivirus programmes and software are essential. A proper antivirus solution and infrastructure protection will give you peace of mind that there is a defence line.
Using an IT Company, such as Oasis Intelligent IT Solutions can help protect your data, devices and networks from malware and viruses. Having a proper cybersecurity infrastructure on your device can help prevent any threatening and destructive attacks. Avoid the risks of ransomware, at Oasis Intelligent IT Solutions through the deployment and management of antiviruses such as Bitdefender, ESET and AVG, we will protect your infrastructure!
Contact us for IT Services today!
Oasis Intelligent IT Solutions.
Telephone: 011 784 9167
E-Mail: info@theoasis.co.za
