Happy Birthday to the Computer Virus!

While it's unlikely anyone baked a cake, the PC virus turned 25 in January
Feb 2011
by Robin Wark

It was back in 1986 that Basit and Amjad Alvi, computer programmers and brothers, created pieces of computer code they called Brain. If this code and the latest version of their heart-monitoring software were run on a computer, the machine would stop working after a year. When this happened three telephone numbers would appear. If you were a legitimate user, the brothers would unlock you. The goal of the programmers, based in Pakistan, was to prevent piracy.

However, their program was copied by computer hobbyists and became what is acknowledged as the first PC virus. Brain code was hidden within various documents that it was assumed people would open. As the files were transferred on floppy disks, the virus spread very slowly. However, it did reportedly freeze computers around the world.

Things have certainly changed from those days. For one, the Internet means that viruses can spread very fast. In the last three months of 2010, 31 per cent of U. K. web surfers reportedly caught a virus or other malware, according to Eurostat figures.

Back in the days of Brain, viruses caused computer problems. These days viruses and other malware are often used for financial gain through identity theft, spamming and fraud.

It is important for computer users to take steps to prevent their machines from being infected. Here are some general tips you should consider implementing:

• Enable Windows updates:
  Microsoft regularly updates its operating systems for various reasons, including to fix bugs and patch vulnerabilities. By updating your OS, you can decrease the chance of an infection.
• Careful where you click:
  Today's cybercriminals are using social engineering to try to get you to install their malware. Common schemes include asking you to download a codec to watch video or telling you to click on a link to update your software. Be very wary of clicking on links in emails from strangers and in downloading supposed updates. It is best to go to a program manufacturer's site to see if there really is a new version available.
• Be aware:
  ParetoLogic Spyware Analysis Team (SWAT) member and security analyst Jean Taggart preaches situational awareness. If surfing leads you to a site that seems strange or not just right, close out of your browser. The same concept applies to clicking to download products.
• Use a security product regularly:
  It is important to install and frequently scan with an anti-virus or anti-spyware product, such as XoftSpySE Anti-Spyware. As well, you might want to consider software such as ParetoLogic Anti-Virus PLUS, which actively blocks malware when it tries to download to your PC. Security programs that allow you to schedule routine scans are also handy.
• Be wary of file sharing programs:
  Peer-to-peer (P2P) file sharing networks are known to be used to spread malware. It is safer to acquire music, video and software from trusted sources.

Viruses and malware have certainly come a long ways from Brain days. However, what is still clear is that you do not want to be infected. The tips above will help you avoid being a victim.

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