The Computer Teacher

A computer virus, Trojan horse, or worm is a small program written to alter the way a computer operates, without the consent of the user.

There are new viruses being created daily and the virus protect industry is on constant alert. Some common software programs are Norton and McAfee and their database of known viruses is growing daily.

What to do.

There are a number of websites devoted to helping you protect your Security and Privacy. Microsoft has launched a special Security and Privacy website aimed at the home user at http://www.microsoft.com/security/protect/default.asp.
Symantec, the software company that produces Norton Security software, will allow you to scan your machine for viruses. This process will take a while but may prove worthwhile. Go to: http://security.symantec.com/sscv6/default.asp. You must enter this address exactly as it appears (no period).
Make sure your computer is protected by virus checking software and a firewall. A firewall will help to protect your computer from computer hackers trying to enter your machine without your permission.
Do you think you know someone creating a cyber crime? The United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team (US-Cert) is charged with protecting our nation's Internet infrastructure by coordinating defense against and response to cyber attacks. US-Cert has a website where you can report suspected cyber crimes along with finding useful information at http://www.us-cert.gov/. AOL has an abuse e-mail address for their customers at abuse@aol.com. WiredSafe is an organization that claims to be the largest Internet safety, help and education group started in 1995. Go to https://www.wiredsafety.org/.

Always remember to back-up any important information before trying any fixes. The rule of thumb for the frequency with which you back-up your computer is—"How much computer work are you willing to loose?"

Be Safe!