Viruses

One of the most common reasons for failures or problems in computers is the lack of anti-virus software, or expired anti-virus software. It is an issue which is often overlooked and has dire consequences for the unfortunate computer owner.

What Is a Virus?

These days there are so many different types of virus. So what is a virus? A virus is usually hidden software made for malicious use, and can do a number of things, as it relates to the health of the computer.

A few examples are provided below:

1.       Make a computer run slowly

2.       Prevent computers from booting up

3.       Damage parts of the system

4.       Amend how the system operates without the owner’s knowledge

5.       Be used to steal personal details

6.       Move from machine to machine on a network

7.       Attack other machines using machine as a host

8.       Send out unauthorised messages

So, like a human virus a computer virus can be dangerous and possibly infectious to other computers. They can be spread between computers and can also be transported via email. It is not limited to software however, as they can also be transported via USB drives and other types of media.

 Do you think your PC has a virus infection? Don’t panic just call us now for some sound advice.

Get Peace of Mind – Speak to us to make sure your computer is protected - call 01604 411444

Adware

Viruses are not the only malicious software you need to worry about. Adware on your computer or phone/tablet can make it impossible to use.

You’re casually scrolling through an article or trying to download a file, and suddenly, your screen is hijacked. A flashing banner insists you’ve won a gift card, or a glaring red warning claims your device is severely infected. You close it, but three more take its place.

 

What Is Adware? (And how it differs from normal adverts)

Adware is a type of software that automatically displays unwanted advertisements on your computer or mobile device.  Many free apps and software platforms legitimately use ads to fund their development, but adware will show pop-ups, banners, and full-screen ads in places they shouldn’t be, such as your device's home screen or on secure websites (like your bank's login page) that never host third-party ads.

 

How Adware gets on to your devices

Malicious apps in official app stores

Mobile users often assume that if an app is in an official store, it is safe. Unfortunately, developers of adware are highly skilled at bypassing security checks. They will upload a seemingly harmless app; like a flashlight tool, a simple game, or a photo filter. Once it is downloaded and granted device permissions, it updates in the background and begins flooding your phone with intrusive ads.

Deceptive links and fake updates

You visit a website and a pop-up warns you that your video player or web browser is out of date. It helpfully provides a "Download Now" button to fix the issue. Clicking that link doesn't update your software; it installs adware directly onto your system.

 

Signs your device is infected

Constant out of place ads and popups - You are seeing pop-ups, banners, and full-screen ads in places they shouldn’t be.

Browser hijacking - Your browser's homepage has suddenly changed without your permission. When you try to search for something via Google, you are mysteriously redirected to an unfamiliar search engine filled with sponsored results.

Unfamiliar Apps and Toolbars - You notice new browser extensions, toolbars, or mobile apps that you have absolutely no memory of installing.

 

Removing adware

Adware is designed to be very difficult to remove, and might stop you from using your device normally at all.
If you think you have an adware infection, contact us immediately and we can help remove it.

Get Peace of Mind – Speak to us to make sure your computer is protected - call 01604 411444