The modern computer virus is more than just a virus; it refers to any number of malicious entities that seek to invade your computer, from rogue security programs to Trojans to malware. Horizon Telcom is the leading internet service provider and telecommunications company in Chillicothe, OH, and they want to stress the importance of anti-virus protection.

You may not realize just how important it is to install an anti-virus program, especially if you typically just log onto your computer, browse the internet for a bit, and sign off. However, even minimal usage isn’t a good reason to avoid protection. Here’s what you should know:

• Everyone Is at Risk: It doesn’t matter if you only use your computer to surf the internet for a few minutes here and there. While you may not think that your privacy is compromised, it very well could be if your email address is stored anywhere on your computer. If a Trojan horse captures that information, along with your password to any website or institution, it can use it to access your bank or other personal accounts.
• Malware Is Common: Perhaps it isn’t everywhere on the internet, but malware is prevalent enough that a virus protection program can instantly block it from doing harm to your computer. It’s commonly spread through spam email messages or click fraud, and, once it’s there, it can quietly monitor your actions online or take control of your computer.
• It Protects Your Emails: Spam messages can occasionally look just like the real thing—and that’s when anti-virus software comes in and warns you that your email message contains a harmful attachment or an improper link.  

Internet service providers stress the importance of safe browsing, too. Don’t open attachments from unfamiliar sources or provide private information. Use a password manager to store unique passwords for all of your accounts in a secure place.

If you want to revamp your computer’s security system, get in touch with the service providers at Horizon Telcom. To learn more about their services, visit their website, or call the internet provider at (740) 772-8331 today.