If you’re looking for a specialist in Virus Removal in Alsip IL, you should probably know at least the basics about malware. There are several categories of cyber threats that fall under the umbrella of malware. Viruses, adware and spyware are the most important to know about.
Malware – Malware is short for “malicious software” and is the generic term for software that attacks a computer. Malware is any type of software that is downloaded onto your computer with the intent of causing harm.
Virus – For most people, malware is synonymous with having a computer virus, but that’s not always the case since a virus is very specific. A virus is a small computer program that will self-install and replicate itself. It is almost always downloaded unknowingly and attacks your computer’s operating system and associated software programs. This results in an infected computer that usually runs so slowly that it cannot complete basic functions or shuts down entirely. Viruses are usually designed by hackers for no other reason than to infect as many computers as they can just to make them inoperable.
Adware – Adware is perhaps the most annoying type of malware. Adware is usually downloaded onto your computer bundled with some other form of legitimate software. You think you’re downloading a useful software program, but, in reality, the adware is coming along with it. With adware you get constant advertising in the form of pop-ups and banners on your browser or unwanted toolbars. Your browser may become slow and unresponsive and is often redirected to other sites than where you’re trying to get to.
Spyware – Spyware is software that’s downloaded onto your computer to collect information about you and your computer and online browsing habits. There are different levels of spyware. Some types just monitor your behavior online to try and tailor ads to sell you products. The more insidious types, however, can monitor every keystroke entered and gain access to your passwords for software programs and secure sites online.
Having anti-virus software installed on your computer does not make you immune to malware. If your computer does contract any of the malware types described above, your best recourse is to take the computer to a professional that specializes in malware and virus removal. For Virus Removal in Alsip IL, BLH Computers is extremely proficient at virus removal and handling all other forms of malware.
