Spam, scams and shams... Computer Worms

A guide to computer worms and ways to avoid them

Author:  Paul Landers

A computer worm is a program (or set of instructions) which "copies" itself on to other computers without assistance from users or their files. It is different to a computer virus in that it doesn't need to attach itself to files (or programs) to be spread. You can read a more detailed article about computer viruses here. A computer worm attaches itself to nodes on a computer network and usually creates network problems, whereas a virus damages the computer files that it infects.

Worms are increasingly being used to exploit vulnerabilities in operating systems, leaving infected computers "open" to misuse by the worm's writer. A typical example of this "misuse" is to use an infected computer to send spam emails. Some worms simply spread without causing any damage along the way. Others have been known to cause serious damage to both the computers and the networks they infect.

Like viruses, worms fit into the category of software known as "malware". Like viruses they are dangerous and leave an infected computer open to further attack.

How do you avoid them? Operating System manufacturers (such as Microsoft) regularly release Security Updates to fix the vulnerabilities in their software which allow malware such as worms to infect computers. It is important that you regularly update your system software to ensure you have the latest protection from attacks. Additionally, ensure that your anti-virus and anti-spyware software is up-to-date. Experts also warn of opening suspicious emails and attachments, typically ones that direct you to visit their websites.

We use a software product called Benign to scan our email. It works in the background and ensures that all emails that we receive are "clean" before we open them. You can find out more about it here.

Regular maintenance and "cleaning" of your computer files will also help. You can read a more detailed article about maintaining and cleaning your computer here. 

Which anti-virus software do we use? We use McAfee Anti-Virus to keep the nasties out of our computers. It's used by many of the world's largest companies, so it is an "industrial strength" product. That said, it is very reasonably priced for home users. Over the years that we have used it, we have never had any problems. You can find out more about it here.