Common computer virus myths




















This myth is actually grounded in fact. Back when computers used nickel cadmium batteries, it was best to wait until the battery was fully spent before charging.

However, today's lithium-ion batteries last longer if you don't wait to charge them. When you charge a empty or low lithium-ion battery, it develops a chemical resistance to charging.

Therefore, it's better not to run your batteries down to zero before charging again! This is another myth that grew out of fact. Originally, the Internet was designed in such a way that "www" was a necessary part of a website's address. However, with the way the Internet works today, all you have type is the website's domain name.

Note: you still need to include the "dot com" part of the address for this to work. For example, typing "bask. Try it with your favorite sites, like "google. When a computer runs slowly, many take it a sign to start deleting some files. While better security control on the developer end helps reduce the number of bugs, bugs are another reason why keeping current on software patches and system updates is crucial.

Malware threats often rely on common misconceptions to create soft targets. By understanding some of the most widely misunderstood points, simple shifts in behavior can remove you from the soft target list. One of the most common misconceptions about malware is the assumption that infection is obvious. Users often assume they'll know if their computer has been compromised. Typically, however, the intent of malware is to perform their task s for as long as possible.

So, malware doesn't leave a trail to follow, and your system displays no signs of infection. Even malware like ransomware only makes its presence known after it has encrypted the files, thus completing its first task, to be ransomed back to the user. Another common misconception is that all reputable websites are safe.

Compromising legitimate websites with infected code is one of the easiest ways to convince potential victims to download files or provide sensitive information. Many users believe their personal data—photos, documents and files—have no value for malware creators. But cyber criminals mine publicly available data, like that on social networks, to create custom targeted attacks on individuals or to gather intelligence for spear phishing emails popular for accessing the networks and assets of large, otherwise secure organizations.

So how does your computer become infected by computer viruses or malware? There are many common approaches, but the following are some of the most popular methods owing to their efficacy and simplicity:. Confidential data, such as passwords, are a key target of cyber criminals. In addition to using malware to capture passwords, cyber criminals also collect login details from hacked websites and devices, even physical means like peering over your shoulder in a crowded cafe.

That's why it's so important to use a unique and complex password for each online account. This means 15 character or more and including letters, numbers and special characters. Because so many people re-use passwords , password tools ensure that one compromised account does not cascade through your entire digital ecosystem.

Also, remember that many security verification questions are ineffective. For example, if the question is "What's your favorite food?

While most malware leaves no telltale signs and leaves your computer operating normally, sometimes there can be indications that you might be infected. Reduced performance tops the list. This includes slow-running processes , windows that take longer to load than usual and seemingly random programs running in the background.

You may also notice that internet homepages have been changed in your browser, or that pop-up ads are occurring more frequently than usual. In some cases, malware can also impact more basic computer functions: Windows may not open at all, and you may be unable to connect to the internet or access higher-level system control functions.

If you suspect that your computer might be infected, scan your system immediately. If nothing is found, but you're still in doubt, get a second opinion by running an alternative antivirus scanner. All are breathlessly written with a lot of exclamation marks and urgency, telling the recipient not to unload a file from the Internet or even read a message bearing a particular heading.

The messages typically blame a secret virus supposedly imbedded in an innocent-sounding file, maliciously being spread by cyberspace vandals intent on wreaking havoc and destruction. The warnings are scary. Almost all the time, these messages are lies. The phony warnings are impossible to stop because as soon as people receive them, they immediately pass them along to friends. Plus, cities are still free to impose mandates and are doing so, other countries and big private employers also have mandates, and more.

The mandate stands for federal employees, including the military, and health care workers at facilities that receive federal money. Additionally, conduct security awareness training sessions to educate employees about the dangers of insider threats and how to detect them. Small and medium-sized businesses may often be under the false impression that their data isn't valuable to hackers.

However, small and medium-sized businesses are one of the top targets for hackers. A recent study revealed that hackers targeted small businesses nearly half of the time. Truth: No business - no matter how large or small, is ever immune to hacking attempts and malicious attacks.

Hackers don't discriminate when it comes to their victims. So, don't let the size of your business, determine how valuable your data is or how secure your assets are. The anti-virus software is an essential part of your cybersecurity plan. However, it only secures one entry point into your system. Hackers have many ways to bypass anti-virus software and infiltrate networks with attacks such as targeted phishing attacks, and ransomware.

So, even with anti-malware software in place, hackers will have plenty of room to launch an attack. Truth: Anti-virus software can only protect you from a unique set of recognized cyber threats, not from other emerging cyber threats. As a business, you need to do much more to secure your data from hackers. Even as malicious cyberattacks continue to make headlines and cost businesses millions, companies still wonder if cybersecurity investments are worth it.



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