Getting Virus Alerts to Prevent Harmful Viruses from Destroying Your PC

With an estimated 150 to 200 new viruses, Trojans, and other pieces of malware developed daily, virus alerts are more important than ever in securing your computer system. The latest virus alerts are available from each of the leading antivirus software vendors as well as through the Microsoft Virus Information Alliance (VIA) established in 2003.

Most people believe that if they install an anti-virus program and allow it to update regularly their systems are protected. In reality there are three pillars to good computer security with antivirus software representing only the first. The second is never open files from an unknown source and the third is keep your system patched against newly discovered vulnerabilities.

The only way to stay apprised of vulnerabilities is to subscribe to some form of computer virus alerts or security bulletins. In order to facilitate information gathering and sharing among companies that produce operating systems and those that develop malware solutions, Microsoft formed the VIA. Currently the members include the top ten antivirus software vendors in the nation as well as other leading security entities.

Are Security Alerts Effective?

Security alerts are very effective when people subscribe to them and read them. Sadly many individuals place far too much faith in their antivirus software and do not realize that for all the convenience of modern 24/7 broadband connections, they do open up a computer to a wide variety of potentially malicious threats.

As home computers and connections become more sophisticated, users need to educate themselves. Do the research and learn about all the ways your computer system can be compromised. Follow the recommended courses of action and develop a regular security routine. By subscribing to a virus or security alert service, you are taking a step toward educating yourself. The alerts, however, will only be effective if you read them and take them seriously.

Because some viruses or Trojans become active and dispense their payloads (work their mischief) on given dates, virus alerts are especially useful to warn computer users in advance. Always pay close attention to any dates given in a virus or security alert and make sure you have taken the appropriate action before the designated time for the virus or Trojan to become active.

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