Most people are always curious why and how they got a computer #virus but we at #scottsdalecomputerrepair have a little more insight for you
There are several ways a computer can become infected with spyware, viruses, and malware. Below is a list of methods of how your computer can become infected. We've made this list in the order we believe to be most to least common.
Accepting without reading
One of the most common ways a computer becomes infected is when a user accepts what they see on the screen without reading or understanding the prompt. For instance:
While browsing the Internet, an Internet advertisement or window appears that says your computer is infected or that a unique plug-in is required. Without fully understanding what it is you're getting, you accept the prompt.
When installing or updating a program, you're often asked if you want "additional software" to be installed. Often, this option is presented as a check box, which is already checked. So, if you click "Next" or "OK," the program considers that as permission, and installs the software — whether you want it or not. For this reason, be very careful when installing software. Make sure to read everything on every screen of the installation process before clicking any buttons.
Tip
When installing a program, you are given the options between an automatic and custom install. If you are installing something from the Internet, we suggest doing a custom install to make sure nothing else is added or changed during the install.
Downloading any infected software
When downloading any software (programs, utilities, games, updates, demos, etc.) via the Internet, make sure you're downloading the software from a reliable source. Be sure to run your downloads through your antivirus and spyware scanners upon completion. As we stated in a previous section, during the installation process, read all prompts about what the program is installing on your computer.
Tip
You can help verify if a website is reliable by using tools such as WOT.
Opening e-mail attachments
As a general rule, do not open e-mail you were not expecting to receive. Computers can become infected when users open email attachment that contain malicious code. Even if the message is from a co-worker, friend, or family member, always use caution before opening a link or downloading an attachment.
Inserting or connecting an infected disk, disc, or drive
Any disc, or thumb drive connected or inserted into your computer can be infected with a virus. As long as something is writable, a virus can move from a computer to that disk, disc, or drive. A common tactic used by hackers to gain access to a network is by leaving out a thumb drive with malicious code on it. Then, when a user puts the thumb drive into their computer, it becomes infected with a virus or trojan horse.
This same rule applies to any network drive or computer. If another computer has write access to a computer drive accessible by your computer, a virus can move between computers on a network.
Visiting unknown links
Anyone, anywhere can create a website, which is great for humanity as an intelligent, creative, social species. But, it also means that any malicious person, anywhere, can create a website. Be aware of this when you visit a website for the first time, and you're not sure what it is.
Not running the latest updates
Many of the updates, especially those associated with Microsoft Windows, are security oriented. Always keep your operating system and programs up-to-date. The plug-ins associated with your browser can also contain security vulnerabilities.
Pirating software, music, or movies
If you or someone on your computer connects to a file distribution network (e.g., BitTorrent), and copyrighted music, movies, or software is downloaded or shared, you may be at risk. Sometimes these files and programs contain viruses, spyware, trojans, or malicious software in addition to what you believe you are downloading.
No antivirus spyware scanner
If you're running a computer with Microsoft Windows, we highly recommended you have some form of antivirus and spyware or malware protection. This software can remove any existing viruses and spyware, and it helps prevent future infections.