The Tribune

By Deidre Bastian

Ever wondered where computer viruses come from? Is it true that behind every virus is a computer programmer? Actually, the introduction of computer viruses began in 1949 with John von Neumann, a lecturer at the University of Illinois, who is considered the theoretical father of computer virology. Since then, viruses have become much more clever, complex and trickier.

A virus is not only dangerous to human beings but to computers as well, and their mission is not good. A computer virus is a software program that hops from computer to computer to reproduce, spread and damage data files. Isn’t it disappointing to know that your computer may become infected by simply visiting a website?

Sadly, as companies increasingly embrace technology to conduct on-line commerce, the possibility of acquiring computer viruses is greater. Actually, one of the biggest fears a designer has to worry about is being infected by a computer virus.

Viruses are destructive, and are little more than ‘Gotcha!’ practical jokes. Disguised as attachments of graphic files, photos, funny images, greeting cards, audio and video files, they can wipe out an entire network

For example, if someone sends you an infected e-mail attachment, when opened your computer automatically becomes contaminated. Malicious viruses are smart enough to gather your entire e-mail address and e-mail them out to everyone very quickly.

Similarly, Trojan horse viruses are tricky, too. As simple as innocently installing a desktop screensaver, a Trojan horse can easily give hackers access to your passwords, bank account, credit card or other personal information on your PC. I know our probing minds will not allow us, but the golden rule is: “If you are not familiar with an attachment, do not open it.”

But we still have to ask: Why are viruses made? The reasons list is long, but typically a group of people (sometimes one person) create viruses for the thrill of beating the system, for kicks or to extort money from companies. Nonetheless, malicious viruses include adware, backdoors, rogues, Trojans and worms.

What are the signs

of viruses?

Some signs begin when the computer behaves differently. For instance, slowing down, missing data, unusual screen displays or strange computer messages. Another passage travelled by viruses is executable file types, such as: .com, .exe, .vbs, .zip, .scr, .dll, .pif, .js, .bin,) or macro viruses (file types: .doc, .dot, .xls, .xlt).

What should you do after working on a project for days, even weeks, and your computer does the ‘gotcha’ trick? Possibly a virus threat? No need for the ‘kumbaya’ song. Count from one to 10 and stay calm. Act smart, not fast. It is always wise to use the brain first. Install an anti-virus program, as there are many free anti-virus programs that can be used to get rid of viruses, such as AVG, Avast! and Avira. Or contact a computer technician immediately for assistance. You can use this site and learn how to remove a virus for free: http://www.ehow.com/video_4774320_remove-virus-computer.html

As a final point, computer viruses have dramatically increased in complexity over the years, which means that simple Internet browsing or e-mailing makes the computer more vulnerable to viral infection. So be wise and protect your data by backing up files frequently, or installing an anti-virus program. Prevention is always key. Until we meet again, fill your life with memories rather than regrets. Enjoy life and stay on top of your game!

NB: Columnist welcomes feedback at deedee2111@hotmail.com. About the Columnist: Ms Bastian is a trained graphic designer who has qualifications of M.Sc., B.Sc., A.Sc. She has trained at institutions such as: Miami Lakes Technical Centre, Success Training College, College of the Bahamas, Nova Southeastern University, Learning Tree International, Langevine International and Synergy Bahamas.