Trojan Horse….Greek Myth
or Computer Nightmare?
Everyone has heard the term Trojan Horse, but what exactly is it? A Trojan Horse is a destructive program that masquerades as a harmless application.
Unlike viruses, Trojan Horses do not replicate themselves, but they can be just as destructive. One of the most dangerous examples of a Trojan Horse is a program that promises to get rid your computer viruses but instead introduces viruses into your computer.
Or, even more frightening, you receive an email that claims to be alerting you to a new virus that can threaten your computer.
When a Trojan Horse is activated, numerous things can happen. Some Trojans are more annoying than malicious. Some of the less annoying Trojans may choose to change your desktop settings or add desktop icons.
A more serious Trojan Horse can erase or overwrite data on your computer, corrupt files, spread other malware such as viruses, spy on the user of a computer and secretly report data like browsing habits to other people.
A Trojan Horse can also log keystrokes to steal information such as passwords and credit card numbers, phish for bank account details, and even install a backdoor into your computer system so that the hacker can come and go as they please.
To increase your odds of not encountering a Trojan Horse, follow these guidelines.
1.Trojans can infect your computer through rogue websites, instant messaging, and emails with attachments. Do not download anything into your computer unless you are 100 percent sure of its sender or source.
2.Make sure that your operating system is always up-to-date. If you are running a Microsoft Windows operating system, this is essential.
3.Install reliable anti-virus software. It is also important that you download any updates frequently to catch all new Trojan Horses, viruses, and worms. Be sure that the anti-virus program that you choose can also scan e-mails and files downloaded through the internet.
4.Install firewall protection. Firewall protection prevents unauthorized use and access to your computer. A firewall is not going to eliminate your computer virus problems, but when used in conjunction with regular operating system updates and reliable anti-virus software, it can provide the additional security and protection for your computer that you really need.
Nothing can guarantee the security of your computer 100 percent. But, you can continue to improve your computer's security and decrease the possibility of a Trojan Horse infection by consistently following these guidelines.
