The Trojan Horse: Computing Precautions Against Trojan Horses
A Trojan horse is a malicious computer virus disguised as a legitimate program. Trojan Horse viruses may appear interesting or useful, or may come bundled with useful software, but will infect the computer once you open them. You can protect yourself from Trojans by taking some basic precautions when browsing the Web and by running software that can detect and remove Trojans if you inadvertently download them.
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Web Browsing Precautions
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Your first and most basic precaution against Trojans is to avoid downloading any files from the Internet that look potentially dangerous. It can be difficult to tell which files are actually dangerous, so it helps to install software that checks files for viruses or corruption when you download them. A general rule of thumb is to avoid downloading files from illegal music or video sites, as these are often a prime location for Trojans. Fake Internet security sites are another common way to download Trojans, as the sites prey on your fears by offering free "computer security software" that actually infects your computer.
Anti-Trojan Software
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Take precautions against Trojans by downloading computer security software before you even think you have a Trojan. Make sure you have an up to date firewall installed on your computer that acts as a barrier between you and potentially dangerous Internet viruses. Download or purchase a Trojan detection scanner, and keep it up to date with patches and regular updates. Scan your computer regularly for Trojans, and delete any according to the scanner's recommendations when you find them.
Update Your Computer Software
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If the basic software that came with your operating system is out of date, you can be at risk for Trojans every time you browse the Internet. Download updates and patches for your operating system as they become available, and check for new ones on a regular basis. As Microsoft regularly releases new security patches to address computer security problems, set your computer to automatically check for new updates and download them as soon as they become available.
Be Wary of Files Sent Over the Internet
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People often pass on Trojans without even knowing it, and email is particularly susceptible to this issue. Scan any attachments before downloading then, even if you know the person who is sending it to you. Be wary of peer-to-peer software, as many people attach Trojans to legitimate programs that you might download with peer-to-peer software. Never accept files from strangers online, and be wary of improper file extensions, such as the double extension ".jpg.exe."
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