Module 5.3

Question 1

what is a virus

Answer 1

software written to disrupt the normal functioning of a computer and is loaded without the knowledge/consent of owner

Question 2

3 ways viruses spread

Answer 2

1. infected attachments sent email
2. infected files downloaded from internet
3. infected files stored portable media (flash drive)
   (most often spread when open infected file)

Question 3

7 signs you have a virus

Answer 3

1. files randomly disappear
2. computer slows down dramatically
3. programs stop working properly
4. free space suddenly reduced
5. error messages start appearing
6. computer no longer boots up
7. anti-virus software reports threat/presence virus

Question 4

what is anti-virus software

Answer 4

computer program scans computer files for presence of virus and eliminates them. detects virus canning computer file and comparing it to its database of virus definitions

Question 5

what is a virus signature/definition

Answer 5

pattern that uniquely identifies virus, need to be updated often and can be downloaded from internet for anti-virus software you have installed

Question 6

what does an antivirus program do

Answer 6

1. warn you of a virus’ presence or any suspicious activity
2. automatically deletes a virus it detects
3. quarantine virus (placed area where it cannot infect the computer)

Question 7

examples of antivirus

Answer 7

Norton’s Antivirus, AVG, Avast, Bit Defender, Kaspersky, McAfee

Question 8

how to prevent viruses

Answer 8

1. have antivirus software
2. keep virus definitions updated
3. set antivirus software update automatically
4. scan files portable media before use
5. scan email attachments before opening
6. set antivirus scan incoming/outgoing emails
7. not opening emails/running programs from people dont know
8. avoid pirated siftware
9. disable autorun feature flash drives

Question 9

what is a computer worm

Answer 9

malware able distribute itself over a network (normally via email) without a person having to run an infected program. Able reproduce itself many times, computer send out many worms

Question 10

effects of computer worms

Answer 10

1. take up free space
2. slow your computer down

Question 11

how to prevent computer worms

Answer 11

have updated ant virus software

Question 12

what is a trojan

Answer 12

destructive program disguised as a useful application, often as exe file

Question 13

what do trojans do

Answer 13

delete files on your computer or scan computer personal information and send it to the creator

Question 14

what is spyware

Answer 14

software monitors and tracks way use your computer and sends the information to third parties without knowledge/consent. loaded without knowledge

Question 15

what is the most dangerous form of spyware and how does it work

Answer 15

keylogging, tracks keystrokes to attempt know username and passwords

Question 16

6 signs computer infected with spyware

Answer 16

1. reported antispyware software
2. internet activity initiated by user
3. changes made to internet settings (eg. homepage) but not by user
4. computer slows down dramatically
5. user redirected different pages when trying go specific web page
6. many pop-up windows appear, often advertising/installation requests

Question 17

3 ways prevent spyware

Answer 17

1. install antispyware (often part antivirus)
2. keep antispyware up to date
3. ignore pop-up windows

Question 18

what is adware

Answer 18

software downloads and bombards you with adverts that pop-up whenever you are connected to the internet

Question 19

what is spam

Answer 19

email sent you in form of advertising products that you did not request (electronic junkmail)

Question 20

5 ways prevent spam

Answer 20

1. check if your ISP can block spam
2. be careful who you give your email to, some websites may ‘sell’ it
3. never respond to spam
4. install antispam (often included antivirus)
5. filter out spam through your email program and send straight to junk mail

Question 21

what is an internet hoax

Answer 21

email message or article intended to deceive or defraud other

Question 22

how to prevent scams/hoaxes

Answer 22

1. dont accept information at face value
2. check source and determine if it is reliable
3. legitimised by a ‘friend of a friend’ not reliable
4. delete messages you recognise as a hoax
5. aware of virus hoaxes encourage you delete files may be crucial for the running of your computer

Question 23

what is phishing

Answer 23

attempts from people to con user into giving out personal and confidential information by posing as a legitimate organisation

Question 24

prevention tips for phishing

Answer 24

1. dont respond requests via email, from any source to confirm details
2. type URLs of bank websites directly (dont click on email link)
3. check site is secure

Question 25

what is pharming

Answer 25

identity theft scam where user's computer is infiltrated so they automatically redirected to a fake website even if type correct URL for that website, able use any data entered

Question 26

three ways to prevent pharming

Answer 26

1. ensure you have updated antispyware 2. pay attention if you get a warning about being directed to another site 3. ensure the site is secure

Question 27

what is email spoofing

Answer 27

changing of an email header to make it look like it came from a different source

Question 28

where is email spoofing often used

Answer 28

in spam and phishing