WHAT IS A COMPUTER VIRUS AND WHY DO I NEED ANTIVIRUS SOFTWARE?

First of all, let’s take a look at why you would need antivirus software. An antivirus is a program which will protect your computer against viruses, or attacks which have the intent of damaging the computer. Antivirus programs are designed to detect and remove viruses, and in most instances any other kinds of malicious software, from your device.

Let’s roll back even further, for those who aren’t quite sure what we’re talking about here! What is a virus? Well, a computer virus is a type of malicious code (or program) which has been written to insert or attach itself to a legitimate program or document on your computer and generate unexpected or damaging effects. It can be a very serious issue which can fatally harm your system by corrupting the software and destroying your data. Stealing passwords or information, logging keystrokes, corrupting files, spamming contacts, and even taking over your machine are some of the bad things a virus can do. So, put simply, having a virus is a pretty big and bad deal!

HOW DOES A VIRUS SPREAD AND HOW DOES IT ATTACK?

Viruses can spread through email attachments, file downloads from the internet, scam links on social media and in emails. To avoid contracting a virus it’s important that you’re careful when surfing the internet or downloading files, and when opening links or attachments in emails.

Although some operating systems are pretty robust these days, meaning that security is often very well catered for, there are still some exceptionally good quality antivirus software packages on the market. Check out the leading brands such as McAfee, Norton and Symantec.