Common Symptoms of a Computer Virus
If you suspect that your computer may be infected with a virus, it’s important to be aware of the common symptoms that can indicate a potential problem. Detecting a virus early can help prevent further damage to your system and safeguard your personal information. Here are some of the most common symptoms to watch out for:
- Sluggish Performance and Slow Execution: One of the telltale signs of a virus infection is a noticeable decrease in your computer’s speed and performance. If your system is taking longer than usual to boot up or applications are running sluggishly, it may be a sign of a virus.
- Frequent System Crashes or Freezes: Another indicator of a potential virus is when your computer frequently crashes or freezes without any apparent reason. If this happens more often than usual, you should consider running a malware scan.
- Unexpected Pop-ups and Unwanted Advertisements: If you’re bombarded with an excessive amount of pop-up ads, even when you’re not browsing the internet, it could be a sign of adware or a potentially unwanted program (PUP) on your computer.
- Programs Acting Oddly or Crashing: Viruses can disrupt the normal functioning of programs on your computer. If you notice that your programs are behaving strangely, crashing frequently, or opening and closing unexpectedly, it’s worth investigating further.
- Unusual Network Activity: If you experience unexplained high network usage, such as excessive data uploads or downloads even when you’re not actively using the internet, it could be an indication of a virus spreading through your system.
It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other factors, such as hardware issues or software conflicts. However, if you’re experiencing multiple symptoms simultaneously or notice a sudden onset of these issues, it’s a good idea to consider the possibility of a computer virus.
In the next section, we’ll explore the steps to detect and remove a computer virus, which will help you take action if you believe your computer is infected.
Sluggish Performance and Slow Execution
One of the most noticeable symptoms of a computer virus is a significant decline in the performance and speed of your system. If you find that tasks that used to be quick and smooth now take much longer to execute, it could be an indication of a virus infection.
When a virus infiltrates your computer, it can consume valuable system resources, such as CPU and memory, which can result in slower performance overall. This can manifest in various ways, including a longer boot-up time, delays in opening programs, and a general sluggishness in executing day-to-day tasks.
Notably, if you notice a sudden drop in performance and have ruled out other possible causes, such as hardware limitations or software conflicts, it’s important to consider the possibility of a virus. Viruses can run in the background, siphoning off your computer’s resources and making it difficult for your system to keep up with your commands.
Additionally, some viruses are designed to launch specific processes or programs that run continuously in the background, further burdening your system’s performance. These hidden processes may not be recognizable to the average user, making it crucial to rely on specialized antivirus software to detect and remove them.
If your computer struggles to perform basic tasks that previously posed no problems, it’s essential to investigate further. Running a comprehensive antivirus scan can help identify any potential infections and allow you to take the necessary steps to remove them.
It’s worth noting that slow performance can also stem from other factors, such as software bloat, insufficient hardware resources, or outdated system files. However, when coupled with other virus symptoms or a sudden decline in performance, it’s wise to remain vigilant and consider the possibility of a virus.
In the next section, we’ll explore other common symptoms of a computer virus, giving you a clearer picture of what to look out for and how to protect your system.
Frequent System Crashes or Freezes
If your computer frequently crashes or freezes without any apparent reason, it could be a sign of a potential virus infection. System instability is a common symptom of certain types of malware that can wreak havoc on your system.
When your computer crashes, it abruptly shuts down or displays a blue screen error, forcing you to restart the system. Freezing, on the other hand, refers to when your computer becomes unresponsive and fails to respond to any input, requiring a manual restart.
A virus can cause these crashes and freezes by corrupting critical system files, modifying important settings, or interfering with key processes. These disruptions can lead to a breakdown in the overall stability and functionality of your computer.
It’s important to note that not all crashes or freezes are caused by viruses. Other factors, such as hardware issues or software conflicts, can also trigger these problems. However, if you experience frequent crashes or freezes, especially when performing routine tasks or while using specific applications, it’s worth considering the possibility of a virus.
One way to determine if a virus is to blame is by analyzing the patterns of crashes or freezes. If they occur consistently or coincide with other virus symptoms, it’s more likely that your system has been infected.
To address frequent crashes or freezes, start by conducting a thorough malware scan using up-to-date antivirus software. This scan will help identify any potential virus infections and allow you to take appropriate action to remove them.
It’s important to address these issues promptly as repeated crashes or freezes can lead to data loss, system instability, and potential damage to your hardware. Additionally, some viruses are engineered to exploit vulnerabilities in your computer, allowing them to escalate their control and potentially gain access to your personal information.
By staying vigilant and addressing frequent crashes or freezes promptly, you can help protect your computer and restore its stability and performance.
In the next section, we’ll explore additional symptoms of a computer virus, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of what to look out for and how to safeguard your system.
Unexpected Pop-ups and Unwanted Advertisements
If you’re bombarded with an excessive amount of pop-up ads, even when you’re not browsing the internet, it could be a sign of adware or a potentially unwanted program (PUP) on your computer.
Pop-up ads are typically a result of malicious code or unwanted software that hijacks your browser and injects advertisements into your browsing sessions. These ads can appear out of nowhere, disrupting your online activities and making it difficult to focus on the content you intended to access.
Not all pop-up ads are malicious, as some legitimate websites utilize them for advertising purposes. However, if you’re experiencing an overwhelming number of pop-ups or if they are unrelated to the website you are visiting, it’s important to consider the possibility of an infection.
In addition to pop-ups, you may also notice unwanted advertisements appearing in various places on your screen, even when you’re not actively browsing the internet. These ads can appear as banners, in-text links, or even full-page interstitials. They are often triggered by adware, a type of malware that bombards your system with advertisements in an attempt to generate revenue for the attackers.
These unwanted ads can not only be annoying and intrusive, but they can also pose a security risk. Clicking on them can lead to further malware infections or redirect you to malicious websites that may attempt to steal your personal information.
If you’re experiencing unexpected pop-ups or unwanted advertisements, it’s essential to take action. Start by running a reputable antivirus scan to detect and remove any adware or PUPs that may be causing the problem.
To prevent further occurrences of unwanted ads, it’s advisable to install an ad blocker extension in your web browser. This can help block intrusive advertisements and enhance your overall browsing experience.
Remember, vigilance is key when dealing with unexpected pop-ups and unwanted advertisements. By taking swift action and using preventive measures, you can protect your computer from potential malware infections and enjoy a safer online experience.
In the next section, we’ll explore another common symptom of a computer virus, providing you with the knowledge to identify and address potential infections.
Programs Acting Oddly or Crashing
If your programs are behaving strangely, crashing frequently, or opening and closing unexpectedly, it could be a sign of a potential virus infection. Viruses have the ability to disrupt the normal functioning of your programs, leading to erratic behavior and instability.
When a virus infiltrates your computer, it can interfere with the operation of software installed on your system. This interference can manifest in various ways, such as programs freezing or crashing unexpectedly, functions within programs not working properly, or error messages appearing when trying to run certain applications.
One common way viruses target programs is by injecting malicious code or modifying critical program files. This can result in the program acting erratically or not functioning at all. Sometimes, viruses can even take control of certain programs, causing them to behave in unexpected ways or performing actions without your consent.
If you notice that your programs are acting oddly, crashing frequently, or if they stop working altogether, it’s important to investigate the possibility of a virus infection. However, it’s worth noting that program issues can also be caused by other factors, such as software conflicts, outdated drivers, or hardware problems. Therefore, it’s essential to rule out these possibilities before concluding that a virus is the sole cause.
To address program-related issues, start by updating your software to the latest version and ensuring that your computer’s drivers are up to date. If the problems persist, run a thorough malware scan using reputable antivirus software. This scan will help detect and remove any viruses or malware that may be affecting your programs.
It’s crucial to address program-related issues promptly to protect your system and prevent further damage. Crashing or malfunctioning programs can lead to data loss, affect your productivity, and even compromise the security of your computer if the programs involved handle sensitive information.
By staying attentive to how your programs are behaving and taking proactive measures when you notice abnormalities, you can help maintain the stability and reliability of your software while keeping your system protected from potential virus infections.
In the next section, we’ll explore another common symptom of a computer virus and provide you with valuable insights on how to identify and address potential infections.
Unusual Network Activity
If you notice unexplained high network activity, such as excessive data uploads or downloads even when you’re not actively using the internet, it could be an indication of a virus spreading through your system.
Viruses often communicate with external servers or other infected devices in order to carry out their malicious activities. This communication typically involves sending or receiving data over your network connection. If you observe a significant increase in network activity without any apparent reason, it’s important to investigate further.
Unusual network activity can manifest in various ways, including a sudden surge in data usage, significant bandwidth consumption, or a high number of connections established by your computer. You may also notice your internet connection slowing down or becoming unstable due to the increased network traffic caused by the virus.
One type of malware that is notorious for unusual network activity is a botnet. A botnet is a collection of compromised computers that are under the control of a remote attacker. These infected computers, also known as bots, work together to perform various malicious activities, such as spreading spam emails, launching distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, or stealing sensitive information.
If you suspect unusual network activity, there are several steps you can take. Start by checking your network usage statistics provided by your internet service provider (ISP) or using network monitoring tools. This will help you identify any anomalous patterns or excessive data transfers.
Next, run a comprehensive malware scan using reputable antivirus software. The scan will help detect and remove any viruses or malware that may be causing the unusual network activity. Additionally, consider updating your firewall settings and implementing network security measures to prevent further unauthorized access.
It’s important to address unusual network activity promptly to protect your system from potential data breaches, financial loss, or even the utilization of your computer for illegal activities. By staying vigilant and monitoring your network, you can help identify and address any potential virus infections effectively.
In the next section, we’ll explore another common symptom of a computer virus, giving you further insights to detect and address potential infections.
Excessive CPU Usage
If you notice your computer’s CPU usage consistently reaching high levels, it could be a sign of a potential virus infection. The CPU, or central processing unit, is the “brain” of your computer that performs all the necessary calculations and executes commands. When a virus infects your system, it can lead to abnormally high CPU usage.
Excessive CPU usage by a virus can cause your computer to become slow, unresponsive, and sluggish. You may notice that tasks that were once smooth and quick now take an extended period of time to complete. Applications may take longer to launch, and even basic operations like browsing the internet or opening files may become frustratingly slow.
A virus can cause high CPU usage by running malicious processes or tasks in the background, consuming a significant portion of your computer’s processing power. These processes can be resource-intensive and can even compete with legitimate programs for CPU resources, leading to a degradation in overall system performance.
As a result of the increased CPU usage, you may also notice your computer’s fan running louder and more frequently, as it tries to cool down the processor that is working overtime due to the virus activity.
Determining whether high CPU usage is due to a virus or other factors can be challenging. However, if you notice consistently high CPU usage, especially without any apparent reason or when your computer is idle, it’s worth investigating the possibility of a virus.
To address excessive CPU usage, start by running a thorough antivirus scan using up-to-date antivirus software. The scan will help detect and eliminate any viruses or malware that may be causing the high CPU usage.
In addition, you can use the Windows Task Manager or similar system monitoring tools to identify processes and applications that are consuming a significant amount of CPU resources. If you come across suspicious or unfamiliar processes, do some research to determine if they are associated with a known virus or malware.
By promptly addressing excessive CPU usage, you can restore your computer’s performance and protect it from further damage caused by the virus. Regularly updating your antivirus software and practicing safe browsing habits can also help prevent future infections.
In the next section, we’ll explore another common symptom of a computer virus, providing you with the knowledge to identify and address potential infections.
Files or Folders Suddenly Missing or Renamed
If you discover that files or folders on your computer have suddenly gone missing or have been renamed without your knowledge or consent, it could be a sign of a potential virus infection. Viruses are known to manipulate and interfere with the organization and integrity of your files and folders.
When a virus infiltrates your system, it can modify, delete, or move files and folders without your permission. This can result in the disappearance of important documents, photos, videos, or other valuable data. In some cases, the virus may also rename your files with unusual or random characters, making them difficult to locate.
Viruses that specifically target files and folders often aim to disrupt your workflow, cause confusion, or even hold your files hostage for ransom. For example, ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts your files and demands a ransom payment in exchange for their release.
It’s important to note that not all cases of missing or renamed files are caused by viruses. Human error, accidental deletion, or hardware malfunctions can also be contributing factors. However, when coupled with other virus symptoms or unusual system behavior, it’s worth considering the possibility of a virus infection.
If you discover that files or folders are missing or renamed, take immediate action to prevent further loss or damage. First, check your system’s recycle bin or trash folder to see if the files are recoverable. If not, run a thorough malware scan using reputable antivirus software to detect and remove any viruses or malware that may be responsible for the issue.
It’s important to regularly back up your important files to an external storage device or cloud storage to protect against data loss. Additionally, implementing reliable security measures, such as using strong passwords and keeping your software up to date, can help prevent virus infections that may lead to missing or renamed files.
By addressing the issue promptly and implementing preventive measures, you can safeguard your files and minimize the potential impact of a virus on your computer.
In the next section, we’ll explore another common symptom of a computer virus, providing you with the knowledge to identify and address potential infections.
Changes in Browser Settings or Homepage
If you notice sudden changes in your browser settings or homepage without your authorization, it could be a sign of a potential virus infection. Viruses often target web browsers as a means to redirect your internet activities, collect sensitive information, or display unwanted advertisements.
Browser settings that are commonly affected by viruses include the default search engine, homepage, new tab page, and browser extensions. You may find that your usual search engine has been replaced with a different one or that your homepage has been changed to a suspicious or unfamiliar website.
These modifications are generally carried out by malicious browser extensions or browser hijackers, which are types of malware designed to take control of your browser and manipulate its settings. By altering these settings, the virus creators can influence your internet usage, track your online activities, or trick you into clicking on malicious links.
If you suspect changes in your browser settings or homepage are due to a virus, it’s important to take action promptly. Start by checking your browser’s settings and extensions to verify and restore them to their original state if necessary.
Next, run a thorough malware scan using reputable antivirus software to detect and remove any viruses or malware that may be responsible for the changes. Additionally, ensure that your browser is up to date with the latest security patches and that you have installed reliable security extensions to help protect against future infections.
It’s worth noting that some legitimate software installations may prompt you to agree to certain changes in your browser settings. However, if you notice unexpected modifications without any clear explanation or if the changes are not reversible through usual settings, it’s likely the work of a virus.
By being vigilant and regularly reviewing your browser settings, you can ensure that your browsing experience remains secure and free from unwanted manipulations. Regularly clearing your browser cache and cookies can also help prevent and resolve potential issues caused by viruses.
In the next section, we’ll explore another common symptom of a computer virus and provide you with the knowledge to identify and address potential infections.
Unusual Error Messages or Notifications
If you frequently encounter unusual error messages or notifications on your computer, it could be a sign of a potential virus infection. Viruses often generate misleading or alarming messages to confuse and deceive users, leading them to take actions that benefit the attackers.
Unusual error messages may appear when you’re performing routine tasks or using specific applications. These messages may claim that your computer is infected, that certain files are corrupted, or that you need to take immediate action to resolve a problem. They may also request personal information, such as passwords or credit card details, under the guise of resolving technical issues.
It’s important to note that legitimate software and applications may also display error messages or notifications. However, if you consistently encounter unusual or unexpected messages that you haven’t seen before, it’s wise to investigate further.
Some virus-generated error messages may attempt to frighten or deceive you into taking actions that can worsen the infection or compromise your security. For example, these messages may urge you to call a specific phone number for technical support, which could lead to fraudulent schemes or the installation of more malware.
If you encounter these unusual error messages or notifications, it’s crucial to exercise caution. Avoid clicking on any links, downloading files, or providing personal information as instructed by the message.
To address these messages, run a thorough malware scan using reputable antivirus software to detect and remove any viruses or malware. It’s essential to keep your antivirus software updated to ensure the most effective protection against the latest threats.
Remember to rely on official sources for information and technical support. If you’re unsure about the legitimacy of an error message or notification, you can search online for information or contact the official support channels of the software or application in question.
By being vigilant and discerning when it comes to error messages and notifications, you can safeguard your computer and protect yourself from falling victim to the schemes of malicious actors.
In the next section, we’ll explore another common symptom of a computer virus, providing you with the knowledge to identify and address potential infections.
Disabled or Inaccessible Security Software
If you find that your security software, such as antivirus or firewall programs, has been disabled or become inaccessible without your knowledge or consent, it could be a sign of a potential virus infection. Viruses often target security software to prevent their detection and removal, allowing them to persist on your computer undetected.
Disabled or inaccessible security software is a cause for concern because it leaves your computer vulnerable to further malware infections and compromises your overall system security. Viruses may disable antivirus programs or modify their settings to prevent them from performing scans or detecting malicious files.
There are several ways viruses can target security software, including disabling the software’s process, terminating its services, or altering its critical files. By doing so, the virus creators can effectively evade detection and continue their malicious activities without interference.
It’s important to regularly check the status of your security software to ensure it remains active and up to date. If you discover that your security software has been disabled or is inaccessible, take immediate action.
Start by running a thorough malware scan using alternative antivirus software or reputable online scanning tools. This can help detect any viruses or malware that may be responsible for disabling your security software.
If the scan detects any infections, follow the recommended steps to remove the viruses and restore your security software’s functionality. In some cases, you may need to reinstall the security software or seek assistance from the software provider’s technical support team.
Preventing disabled or inaccessible security software is crucial for maintaining the security and integrity of your computer. Practice safe browsing habits, such as avoiding suspicious websites, not clicking on unknown links or downloading files from untrustworthy sources, and regularly updating your security software to protect against new and evolving threats.
By promptly addressing disabled or inaccessible security software, you can protect your computer from further malware infections and maintain a strong defense against potential threats.
In the next section, we’ll explore another common symptom of a computer virus, providing you with the knowledge to identify and address potential infections.
Increased Internet Data Usage
If you notice a sudden and significant increase in your internet data usage without any apparent reason, it could be a sign of a potential virus infection. Viruses can consume your internet bandwidth by constantly sending or receiving data, even when you’re not actively using the internet.
When a virus infiltrates your system, it may initiate activities that require an internet connection, such as downloading additional malware, sending spam emails, or participating in botnet activities. These activities can result in a significant increase in your internet data usage.
An unusual spike in your data usage might be noticeable when you review your monthly internet service provider (ISP) billing statement or monitor your data usage using your ISP’s online tools. If you notice a sudden surge in data usage that cannot be attributed to your regular online activities, it’s worth investigating further.
Increased internet data usage can also manifest in slower internet speeds or a reduction in the performance of your other online activities. This is because the virus is consuming a significant portion of your available bandwidth, leaving less bandwidth for your normal internet usage.
To address increased internet data usage, start by monitoring your data usage and comparing it to your typical usage patterns. If you discover a significant increase, consider running a thorough malware scan using reputable antivirus software. The scan will help detect and remove any viruses or malware that may be causing the increased data usage.
Preventing increased internet data usage from viruses requires maintaining a strong defense against malware. Keep your operating system and security software up to date, as updated software often includes security patches that help protect against new threats. Additionally, practice safe browsing habits, such as avoiding clicking on suspicious links, downloading files from untrustworthy sources, and regularly scanning files for viruses before opening or executing them.
By promptly addressing increased internet data usage, you can protect your computer and internet usage from potential malware infections, ensure a smooth online experience, and avoid excessive data charges from your ISP.
In the next section, we’ll explore another common symptom of a computer virus, giving you further insights to detect and address potential infections.
Suspicious Emails or Messages Sent from Your Account
If you receive notifications or reports of suspicious emails or messages being sent from your own email or messaging accounts, it could be a sign of a potential virus infection. Viruses can hijack your accounts and use them to spread spam, phishing attempts, or malicious content to your contacts.
One common type of malware that targets email accounts is a worm. Worms are self-replicating viruses that can spread rapidly through email attachments or links. Once they gain access to your email account, they can send out mass emails to your contacts without your knowledge or consent.
If you receive calls or messages from friends or colleagues questioning the legitimacy of emails or messages supposedly sent from you, it’s crucial to investigate the situation promptly. Discern whether the suspicious emails or messages were actually sent from your account or if they are part of a phishing attempt where the sender impersonates you.
Additional signs of a compromised account include unexpected password reset emails, inability to access your account, or unfamiliar email addresses added to your contact list.
If you suspect your account has been compromised, take immediate action to minimize the damage. Change your account passwords using strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication if available. Additionally, notify your contacts about the situation to prevent them from falling victim to malicious content sent from your account.
Running a thorough malware scan using reputable antivirus software is crucial to detect and remove any viruses or malware that may be responsible for the unauthorized access to your account. It’s also recommended to scan any attachments or links received in suspicious emails or messages before opening or clicking on them.
Preventing your account from being compromised by viruses requires practicing good cybersecurity hygiene. Be cautious of suspicious emails or messages, avoid clicking on unfamiliar links or downloading attachments from unknown senders, and keep your security software up to date.
By promptly addressing suspicious emails or messages sent from your account, you can safeguard your contacts, protect your reputation, and mitigate the potential damage caused by the virus.
In the next section, we’ll explore another common symptom of a computer virus and provide you with valuable insights on how to identify and address potential infections.
Unauthorized Access to Your Personal Information
Discovering unauthorized access to your personal information is a concerning sign of a potential virus infection. Viruses can be designed to gather sensitive data, such as login credentials, financial information, or personal details, without your knowledge or consent.
Personal information breaches can occur through various means, including keyloggers, spyware, or remote access trojans (RATs). These types of malware are specifically designed to steal and transmit your confidential data to malicious actors.
Indications of unauthorized access to your personal information may include unfamiliar activity in your online accounts, unexpected changes in account settings, or suspicious transactions on your financial statements.
If you suspect unauthorized access to your personal information, it’s imperative to take immediate action to minimize the potential damage. Start by changing the passwords for all your online accounts, using strong, unique passwords for each account. This helps ensure that even if one account has been compromised, the others remain secure.
Run a thorough malware scan using reputable antivirus software to detect and remove any viruses or malware that may have facilitated the unauthorized access to your personal information.
Regularly monitor your financial accounts and credit reports for any suspicious activity or unauthorized transactions. Reporting any fraudulent charges or unauthorized access to your financial institution helps mitigate the impact and prevent further damage.
It’s essential to practice good cybersecurity hygiene to prevent unauthorized access to your personal information. Be cautious of phishing attempts, avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading files from unknown sources, and regularly update your security software and devices to protect against new threats.
Consider using additional security measures such as two-factor authentication and encryption for sensitive information. This helps add an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access.
By promptly addressing unauthorized access to your personal information, you can limit the potential harm caused by the virus and take steps to protect yourself from further breaches. Remember to remain vigilant and stay informed about the latest cybersecurity best practices to safeguard your personal data.
In the next section, we’ll explore another common symptom of a computer virus, providing you with the knowledge to identify and address potential infections.
Steps to Detect and Remove a Computer Virus
Detecting and removing computer viruses is essential to protect the integrity and security of your system. Here are the steps you can take to identify and eliminate a virus:
- Install reputable antivirus software: Start by installing a reliable antivirus program that offers real-time protection against malware. Ensure that the antivirus software is regularly updated to detect and defend against the latest threats.
- Run a full system scan: Perform a comprehensive scan of your entire system using your antivirus software. This scan will detect and isolate any viruses or malware present on your computer.
- Quarantine or remove infected files: Once the scan is complete, the antivirus software will identify any infected files. Choose to either quarantine the infected files, segregating them from the rest of your system, or remove them completely.
- Update your operating system and software: Regularly update your operating system and all installed software to ensure they have the latest security patches. This helps protect against known vulnerabilities that viruses can exploit.
- Be cautious of email attachments and downloads: Avoid opening email attachments or downloading files from untrusted sources. Exercise caution even with files received from known sources, as they may have unknowingly transmitted infected files.
- Keep your browser secure: Configure your web browser to block pop-ups, enable anti-phishing measures, and disable automatic downloads. This helps prevent inadvertently downloading viruses or visiting malicious websites.
- Practice safe browsing habits: Be cautious of clicking on suspicious links or ads, and refrain from visiting untrustworthy websites. Stick to reputable, secure websites to reduce the risk of encountering malware.
- Regularly backup your data: Create regular backups of your important files and store them in a secure location. In the event of a virus infection, having backups ensures you can restore your data and minimize any data loss.
- Educate yourself on cybersecurity: Stay informed about the latest cybersecurity threats, scams, and best practices. By remaining vigilant and knowledgeable, you can better protect yourself against potential virus infections.
Remember, prevention is always better than cure. To minimize the risk of virus infections, maintain up-to-date security software, practice safe browsing habits, and exercise caution when downloading files or opening attachments.
If you suspect that your computer is infected with a virus despite taking preventive measures, it’s recommended to seek professional help. Consulting with a cybersecurity expert can provide you with specialized guidance on removing the virus and securing your system.
