Virus & Malware Rockland NY

Technology is getting easier and more comfortable to operate. Many computer and network components are designed to be plug-and-play … you plug them in and start computing. 

 While the simplicity and ease-of-use are fantastic, plug and play can cause vulnerability in your computer – especially in terms of data and network security.

 These plug-and-play computer network products, if not properly configured and protected, are particularly vulnerable to cyber-attacks. Cyber-attacks are stealthy, silent, and virtually invisible.

 What is a Computer Virus? 

 Computer viruses are online attacks that enter your network or computer and damage functionality, data, or even steal personal information. They’re not one-time deals either. Once a computer virus embeds itself into your computer or network, they can reappear even when you think you have removed them. 

 At any given time, there are countless computer viruses in circulation on the internet. That makes the millions of internet users on their high-speed connections ideal targets for computer viruses. These viruses can arrive on your computer via email attacks, hacker programs, or ordinary downloads, and they come in many forms. Here are a few of the kinds of computer viruses you’ll want to be wary of as you use the internet.  

 Spyware: 

Spyware is a type of computer virus that collects information about the user (you) that can later be used to obtain confidential data, like your banking details or private passwords. 

 Keystroke Logs: 

Keystroke loggers are a type of computer virus that records which keys you’re pressing on which sites, allowing the virus’ owner to get a hold of your passwords on the websites you access. 

 Worms:

Worms are self-replicating viruses that move from computer to computer via networks, infecting one, or more, or all computers on that same network. 

Ransomware:

Your data can be hijacked. Just as a hijacker takes control of an airplane, a hacker can take control of your system. Ransomware is a malware designed to deny access to a computer system or data until a ransom is paid, usually spread by unknowingly visiting an infected website or through phishing emails. Ransomware encrypts some or all the files on your computer. This means that you cannot read the files or data without a decryption key. The attacker then demands payment of hundreds or even thousands of dollars for the decryption key. A good backup is the only real defense against this type of attack.

 Viruses, spyware, and the other infections mentioned above are the bane of internet users everywhere. There are many reliable antivirus software out there to help protect you. However, even these software solutions need to be set up correctly to keep you safe. The average computer user doesn’t have experience in setting up an antivirus software or a network firewall, leaving their home computing installations vulnerable to disastrous cyber-attacks. 

 What’s worse – Computer viruses can be nearly impossible to remove – unless you’re a tech expert. 

 Expert Virus and Spyware Removal 

 At Clarkstown Computer, we are highly skilled at diagnosing system threats and, consequently, ridding your computers and networks of those pesky, hidden viruses. Our expert technicians will diagnose your system to find and remove viruses – including spyware, keyword loggers, and worms. And, we’ll also make sure that no unauthorized users can access your data or use your shared internet connection without your knowledge and consent from here on out. 

 That includes fitting an industry-approved antivirus program once we’ve removed all of your bugs, as well as checking and updating your computer and network settings to ensure that you’re completely safe from future attacks. 

 While plug and play computer and network systems can seem simple, you do want an experienced network expert to properly set up and secure your home/small office network. For Rockland County residents, looking to remove or protect themselves from computer viruses or spyware, the only call you need to make is to Clarkstown Computer. 

 Call today to keep your computing systems – and in turn, sensitive personal or business data – safe from cyber-attacks.