Malware is malicious software that was designed to infiltrate and damage your computer without your knowledge. Malware gets onto your computer via infected programs, rogue web sites, infected e-mail messages or attachments, and open ports (servers or programs that allow file sharing but don’t have a firewall). Following are just a few kinds of infectious programs.

Viruses are a form of computer vandalism–they’re self-contained programs that disrupt normal computer operations. Their effects range from annoying disruptions to malfunctioning operating systems or application programs, and even data destruction. You have to execute a program to activate them, then they replicate and attach copies of themselves to other programs and computers. They’re no longer the most common type of malware.

It’s hard to tell the difference between a worm and a virus now. A worm spreads more automatically than a virus; it transmits itself over a network without being attached to a host file. A worm runs as a separate process rather than burying itself within an existing program.

A Trojan horse is malicious code that often hides inside more benign applications such as animated cursors or file-sharing software. It’s disguised as legitimate software. Once installed on a hard drive, it can steal information like credit card numbers or passwords. It can even turn your computer into a "zombie" machine that can be controlled remotely. Originally, Trojan horses couldn’t duplicate like viruses but recently their infection capabilities have changed.

Our knowledgeable staff can help you sort through the best solutions for protecting your computer from viruses and other malware. If you think it’s been infected, we have the expertise to clear out the malware and get your computer running properly. We can also train you how to use your virus protection software and e-mail settings.


You can purchase products for protecting your computer from this link to AVG Anti-Virus.

Additional Information

The Montana Department of Justice provides additional information about protecting yourself from viruses and other malware and where to file a complaint.  Click here to go to their Internet Security link.