Update on keeping safe from Internet viruses and worms

Users of Microsoft systems are more likely to be attacked by viruses and worms, simply because the originators target ways of inflicting maximum damage worldwide

24 08 2004 United Kingdom

Threats from Internet are increasing and topenterprise has updated this guide for computer users

(Updated 24 August 2004)

In 2003 a small, not-for-profit organisation in West London found they had over 400 computer files infected by over a dozen viruses and worms. All of their computers were out of use for over 12 hours. They had anti-virus software but it was from a less well-known source and had not been kept up-to-date.

Sophos have reported identifying a total of 1,157 brand new viruses in July 2004, the highest monthly figure since December 2001. (Sophos is a leader in protecting businesses against viruses.)

1. Prevent infection by viruses

Use anti-virus software and a firewall from a reputable supplier, such as Symantec (Norton Anti-virus and Firewall), McAfee, Sophos or another leading brand.

You could also create a filter rule via your email software to block file types .exe, .pif and others.

Firewall rules can be used to prevent information from arriving from, or being transmitted to, specific IP (Internet Protocol) addresses, such as 61.140.299.256
Read hear how to block Internet traffic with Norton Personal Firewall (page opens in a new window)

If at all possible, physically disconnect your PC from the Internet or switch off the modem when you are not using the web.

Always make sure that the firewall is enabled before you physically re-connect to the Internet. (It takes less than a second for an Internet worm to get through while your firewall program is starting up.)

Disconnect from the Internet or switch off the modem before shutting down your computer.

2. Maintain a high level of security

Set the security level of your firewall to High.

Make sure your anti-virus and firewall software are always activated and kept up-to-date. Also keep your operating system updated, plus your web browser - such as Internet Explorer - and other application programs - such as MediaPlayer.

Run your anti-virus software regularly - we recommend daily - to scan for any risky items that might have slipped through the net.

Run your anti-virus program immediately after it has been updated.

Never download music, images or other files from Kazaa or other websites that you are not sure of, or run CDs or disks from sources that may not be trustworthy.

3. Keep your computer information secure

Make sure that regular backup copies are made of all key data on your computers.
Read here about keeping your data safe (for topenterprise members)

If you receive a firewall alert to an inbound or outbound communication, check whether it has been digitally signed. It may appear to be a legitimate Microsoft program accessing the Internet, but if it is not digitally signed, then block it until you are satisfied that it is safe. (Some malicious spyware programs are disguised as Microsoft .exe programs – see below.)

Keep yourself and your staff informed about the latest threats - and what to do if they become suspicious.

Ensure that all your staff are vigilant and report any suspicious emails or other unusual events.

4. Additional measures

Users of Microsoft systems are more likely to be attacked by viruses and worms, simply because the originators target ways of inflicting maximum damage worldwide. If you run Microsoft Internet Explorer, consider changing to an alternative that is not subject to frequent attacks.

Spyware poses an increasing threat to Internet users because it can avoid detection by anti-virus protection and firewall security
Read here about Spyware and how to protect against malicious intruders (for topenterprise members)

topenterprise tip

If you suspect infection from a worm, virus or other cause, isolate affected computers immediately.

Unplug them completely; remove their keyboards and power cables; take away any disks, label them and lock them away; attach warning notices to the affected computers.

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Footnote
Thi s article is intended to contribute to informed decisions by business owners, directors and managers. It does not constitute professional advice in all individual cases and should not be interpreted as giving specific advice or guidance.

Before making a decision to take any action you should make your own appropriate enquiries and seek legal, financial and other relevant advice from a qualified person or body. See terms of use for further information.