ICT Functional Skills Viruses and other malware

What is malware? software which is specifically designed to disrupt or damage a computer system – Viruses, Worms, Trojans The type of damage is called the payload Malware can make things stop working, delete files, slow the computer down or steal information

How does it infect the computer? Viruses and other malware enter a computer through files, s and the internet e.g. – Sharing a file via a memory stick – Opening an attachment – Installing dodgy software from the Internet

How to avoid viruses / malware! 1 The best way to reduce the risk of viruses and malware is to use anti-virus software – This can stop viruses entering and get rid of viruses that are on a computer – But you must keep it up to date – And run a frequent scan of your computer to make sure nothing nasty has arrived on it

How to avoid viruses / malware! 2 If you don’t know they’re safe: – Don’t open files from someone else – Don’t open attachments – Don’t download anything from the internet You can run a virus scan on files before you open them – then you can remove them if they’re infected

Sample exam question on viruses Viruses can be a problem when using the internet. Give two ways to minimise the risk of computer viruses. (2) Feb 2012

Model answer Any two suitable methods from these: Do not open attachments from unknown sources Do not download files from untrustworthy sources Install virus checker / anti virus software Keep virus checker updated Feb 2012

Another sample exam question on viruses Tom has received a message with an attachment from an unknown sender. What should Tom do with the message and why? (2) Jun2012

Model answer One mark for any of the following: Delete the message Send it to Spam/Junk (folder) Do not open attachment Scan the attachment with anti-virus software Another mark for explanation: …because it may contain a virus/malware Jun 2012