Virus attacks are now a norm in the tech world, and while antivirus technology has improved over the years, one can still have a chance to be infected. Moreover, how do you recover if this inevitably happens? With these steps outlined below, recovery can be less of a headache and help you prevent virus attacks in the future.
Make sure the virus is gone.
Even though the scan reads clear after a virus tried to attack your system, it is important check multiple times through multiple antivirus software. The reason for checking is to ensure your computer has gotten rid of any glimpse of a virus. However, make sure to use trusted antivirus software, because viruses can be disguised as antivirus programs.
Learn where the virus came from.
Where did the virus come from? You, as a computer owner, need to find out where the virus could come from. Was it from an out-of-date browser plug-in or did you accidentally open the wrong email? Make sure to locate where it could have come from – knowing the source can help you detect a threat before it happens.
Change your passwords.
Once a virus has attacked your computer and your computer survived, you need to change passwords. Change the passwords to every important website/page that has important information – think banking or social media accounts. The virus has the information now, and if it comes back, it can easily hack your system, and you can lose information that can cause a lot of headache.
How to prevent a virus attack in the future.
- A big key to ensuring that your computer is safe from future attacks is to keep your computer up-to-date. Having a computer that isn’t up-to-date will allow potential viruses that supersede the old programming that is on your computer.
- A thing to always remember when owning a computer or any electronic device is to keep it up-to-date, this including the antivirus programs that your device has. Make sure the program you use is current and up-to-date, so the virus has no chance to corrupt the computer.
- Firewalls are key when you are working with a system that connects to the internet by using a cable that is directly connected to a modem. A firewall is exactly what it sounds like — it’s a software that pulls up a wall that keeps the virus from damaging any internet content. However, do not use a firewall when you are connected to your home or work network.
Since virus attacks are a common occurrence, being infected is always a possibility. However, knowing how to recover after a virus attack can help you prevent an attack in the future. Follow the tips listed above and stay safe. The ever-growing virus technology can be scary, but don’t make it be. Be cautious, find the attack source, and take precautionary steps before the next virus attack corrupts your system. Be smart and stay safe.
