Why Use an Antivirus Program?

Have you wondered why you should use an anti-virus program? Sometimes you may not think your computer is infected because it appears to run normal. Most malicious attacks occur within programs, which is why using an anti-virus program is important. If you don't use a program that can halt attacks, then your computer will most likely decrease in performance or allow some of you personal information to be obtained. Knowing how viruses can infect a computer and what they can do will help you see that using an anti-virus program is necessary.

Real-Time Scanning

Anti-virus programs provide real-time scanning, which means the program is always on and checking for viruses as you perform tasks. This is important because a virus scanner works after the fact and may not remove the virus completely.

Websites

As you visit websites, small programs in the background called scripts could possibly have viruses or Trojans embedded in the programming. Some are benign, but most are malicious.

Email

With email, attachments are capable of transmitting viruses. Use an anti-virus program that scans email and email attachments so any infections or fake emails (which used to get you to click on a link that appears legit) can be caught.

Data Mining

Sometimes, data trackers get installed on your computer for one purpose: to track your computing habits. The websites you visit, the products you purchase and web programs you use all assist advertisers for targeted marketing.

Personal Information

One step further than data mining is the use of programs that are built to steal personal information like passwords, banking information and credit card numbers. Using an anti-virus program helps eliminate these destructive programs.

References

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