Terms that start with V

Viruses are self-replicating programs or pieces of script or code that make copies of themselves and either attach themselves to existing files on the infected system or store copies of themselves on the system with innocuous sounding names like 'repair tool'.

The virus is limited to spread only by either being transmitted or sent by an unwitting user or carried on a portable storage medium from one system to another. However, if a virus gets embedded somewhere on a network drive then anyone who opens or clicks on the infected document or file can end up getting infected as well.

Remember the basics:

• Do not install software you have downloaded from the Internet unless it has come from a known, reliable source.
• Be vary careful if you use any file sharing applications as these networks are known breeding grounds for infectious software.
• Do not open any email attachements from unknown sources.
• Use a good anti-virus/anti-spyware application and scan your system at least weekly.