Viruses and spyware

They’re two of the most common cyber threats, yet many people don’t really understand what spyware and viruses are or how to protect themselves. Here’s what you need to know:

Viruses: In general terms, a virus is a computer program or code that replicates on its own and spreads to other computers through email or open network connections. While some viruses are more dangerous than others, nearly all are designed to damage or destroy computer data, including files and software programs. Anti-virus software will screen suspicious files and either delete or quarantine them. There are several anti-virus options, from free downloadable programs to expensive professional software suites. GoDaddy.com email accounts include powerful, built-in anti-virus screening to detect and stop viruses before they ever reach your Inbox.

Spyware: Similar to viruses in the way that it often sneaks onto your system through innocent-looking emails or programs, spyware is different from a virus in that it doesn’t self-replicate and will not generally damage data. Instead, spyware can cause a number of different types of problems – from monitoring and reporting which Web sites you visit to stealing your private and personal information (such as user names, passwords, credit card and bank account numbers and more) which allows them to steal your identity, empty your bank account, run up your credit cards and worse. Like virus protection, there are several effective anti-spyware programs available online for free and more feature-rich versions available for purchase at your local retailer.