Tips: Virus attack recovery
Here are helpful steps from Symantec Corp., a global leader in security software, enabling businesses and consumers to have confidence in a connected world, to remove the virus and restore your system.
Disconnect and isolate. Think of it as putting the infected computer into quarantine. If you suspect that a computer has been attacked by a virus, physically disconnect the machine. An infected machine can endanger other computers.
Clean up. Once the computer has been disconnected, you need to remove the malicious code. Use removal tools written for the specific virus. Your anti-virus software should have updates or patches available for the specific security threat. Symantec Security Response makes both removal tools and updated definitions available as soon as a threat is discovered.
Restore. After a virus attack, damages may range from changed file names to obliterated files to permanently disabled software applications. Before resuming work, you need to restore your computer to its original condition.
Reinstall. If your operating system is completely destroyed, you’ll need to reinstall. Use the “quick restore” CD that came with your computer to restore your computer to its original configuration. This means that you will lose any applications you may have installed or data files you may have saved. Before you begin the reinstallation process, make sure you have all the necessary information handy—original software, licenses, registration, and serial numbers.
Scan for viruses. After restoring and reinstalling, scan your entire network, including all files and documents, for viruses. Use the most recent virus definitions available for your antivirus software.
Restore your data. This assumes that you have been diligent about backing up your files. If you don’t follow a regular schedule of backups, your files will be permanently lost. If this is the case, learn from your mistake and make sure to back up regularly from now on.
Prevent future attacks. Run antivirus software and keep virus definitions current. Ensure security patches are up-to-date. If you lost data files in the recent attack, you will want to create and enforce a regular backup schedule. Next, you will want to change all passwords, including ISP access passwords, FTP, e-mail, and website passwords. Some viruses can capture or crack passwords, leading to future vulnerabilities. Change passwords immediately. But remember, prevention is always the best security policy.
REMEMBER: Prevention is always better than cure.
Article Source: http://www.yehey.com/gadgets/articles.aspx?id=171699
