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| 04 | 2006 |
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| Viruses & Worms: The Cure for Infections |
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Viruses and worms are an ever-present concern. Computer viruses, like the human form, spread quickly and come in many different forms – some mildly annoying, others severe and destructive. Trojan viruses are disguised as beneficial programs to compel users to install it. Some even provide you with the services they advertise, but in the background they are quietly infecting your computer and others on the network. Another version, known as a Worm, duplicates itself and can take control of your software programs, giving it the power to send the virus to every person in your email application.
More recently, these Trojan viruses and worms are being controlled by Botnets, a term used to describe a collection of software robots (bots) which run autonomously. Cybercriminals use botnets to infect hundreds of thousands of machines with unauthorized software programs which are remotely controlled by a botnet operator. Operators then use their control to send more viruses, worms, spam, create denial-of-service attacks, and steal serial numbers, login IDs and financial information. In the 2005 Semi-Annual Web Security Trends Report issued by Websense Security Labs, this type of cybercrime increased at an “alarming rate” during the last half of 2005, and is one of the fastest-growing security risks over the last year.
To protect your network from these invaders, there are three critical steps you can take to reduce your risk of infections.
1. Use an anti-virus software solution
Symantec offers some of the best products on the market today, offering a selection of software to fit your company whether it be a home office, small business or large enterprise. They not only detect and remove viruses, but also scan email and IM attachments for threats, protect against potentially harmful spyware and adware, and they feature automatic updates to ensure that your system is protected from new threats.
2. Keep your anti-virus software updated
Many solutions offer automatic updates to save you time and prevent you from acquiring a virus simply because you forgot to update your software. If your current anti-virus product does not offer an automatic update feature, consider switching to a service that does.
3. Stay current on the latest threats and advisories
Occasionally companies such as Windows do not have an immediate patch available to prevent a virus from breaching your network security. Waiting for a security patch to become available leaves your network open to attacks. Be aware of these developments and take preventative measures to protect your network during times of uncertainty. While most anti-virus providers offer a list of the latest threats on their websites, The Brookfield Group plans to take this one step further. As part of your email newsletter subscription, we will notify you of any high-risk viruses, let you know what we are doing to protect our clients as well as offer advice and tips you can use to ensure the security of your network.
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About The Brookfield Group
The Brookfield Group has become a leader in IT, ISP, ASP and web solutions by providing next level technology solutions managed by experts who give you peace of mind without the tech-talk. The company's services are customized to fit any enterprise-size businesses and include: IT project management; hosting solutions and maintenance; systems security and patches; telecommunications services, server and desktop setup, repair and applications; network infrastructure design; audio visual products; surveillance and security solutions; as well as a variety of other software, hardware, services and accessories. Located in Carmel, Indiana, more information about The Brookfield Group products and services is available at www.thebrookfieldgroup.com or by calling 317.524.6000.
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