Over the past few weeks we have seen a big increase in computer viruses. Many people ask: How can I get a virus if I'm running AntiVirus software? Unfortunately, it's possible, so watch your system!
AntiVirus software is not 100% perfect. In order to protect against a specific virus, your AntiVirus software needs to know about it - a "definition". When new threats are identified, the AntiVirus vendors create and distribute new updates so your system can be protected against the new viruses. The update then needs to be downloaded to your system to provide protection. If a new virus is spreading on Monday afternoon, and you don't get the definition update until Tuesday, you're vulnerable until then. As you can see, you can greatly decrease your chances of getting a virus, but the risk doesn't completely go to zero. It's a bit of a "cat and mouse" game.
To check if you're keeping up to date, view the management console of your Antivirus software and look for time of the last update. Also check how often you get updates. We have a short video on our web site to show how to do this with AVG as an example, and other vendors have similar panels.
Another thing to consider is the type of AntiVirus software you're using. Many vendors, such as AVG, provide entry-level versions for free, which are very popular with home users. The problem is that most of these don't offer root-kit protection.
A rootkit is a collection of programs that enable administrative access to a computer. A rootkit can consist of spyware that monitors keystrokes or web traffic, and it can also create a "backdoor" for altering log files, and altering existing system tools to escape detection. We list a few very good root-kit removal tools on our blog.
If you suspect you have a virus, isolate your system from other computers on your network and address the problem immediately to contain the damage. Don't panic. In most cases you'll get your system back!
Lunch & Learn Phone Seminar:
"Get Organized with Microsoft Outlook"
Join us May 28 at 12:30pm for an informative phone seminar. We'll cover some tips and strategies to get your contacts and tasks organized in Microsoft Outlook, so you can be more productive. Please email us if you'd like to join us, and we'll send you the dial-in details and links. There is no cost for the event.
Tip: Try the new Ekaru "How Do I?" Tech Help Page
We've started a new section on our web site to provide training and self-help for some of the common tech questions we get: www.ekaru.com/HowTo If you have a suggestion for topics to add, let us know! Please also visit our Blog at ekaru.blogspot.com where you can ask questions and submit comments.
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Enjoy Spring!
Sincerely,
Team Ekaru
Introductory Technology Assessment Over 400 local small businesses have chosen Ekaru to manage their computers and networks. We offer a free, no-obligation initial consultation to get started. We'll visit your office, review your network, and make recommendations. Call us at 978-692-4200 or email us to schedule a no-obligation assessment. If you know someone who could benefit from this offer, simply forward this email to them. Thank You!
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