Back-ups of programs and operating files is made regularly. Restrict physical or electronic access, control all diskettes, and install and use automated protection such as passwords. The threat from computer viruses continues to affect our lives. With increasing dependence upon desktop computers to carry out the mission for the Air Force, the proliferation of networks, the widespread use of the Internet, and the many ways to access your desktop from anywhere in the world, the danger of receiving a virus has multiplied tremendously. Some viruses simply display annoying messages while others can be disastrous.
Viruses can modify or destroy data, overwrite files, and reformat hard drives.
According to leading anti-virus software maker, Network Associates, more than 17,000 viruses exist and an additional 300 appear every month. This is why it is so important to ensure each user has the most updated version of antiviral software on their desktop computer and continually update the software to combat the growing virus menace. Protecting your desktop computer is one of the smartest moves you can make. According to the International Computer Security Association, infections from e-mail and Internet downloads accounted for 48 percent of the reported virus detections last year. The newest danger presenting itself is the macro virus, which the ICSA said is now responsible for 70 percent of all virus infections.