The dangers of Limewire
Limewire is one of the most popular free music download applications available. It works by opening the doors between computers and allowing file sharing (Peer to Peer file sharing, also referred to as P2P)
It is also the most familiar face we see here at Aspire when a system is brought in with multiple or severe virus issues.
What are the dangers?
File sharing with people you are familiar with holds very little risk, but imagine sharing access to the files on your computer with literally thousands of strangers. Viruses spread like wildfire in this free for all environment of take and give and it often is unintentional. It’s easy to pick up a virus another sharer has innocently acquired through their use of file sharing or even randomly surfing the internet. While you may be careful about where you go, there is no way to know the habits of the person you are sharing files with.
What does your Anti-Virus protection do?
We tend to rely on our Anti-Virus as our cure all and ultimate protection against anything bad on the internet, but what happens when you purposefully download something that is carrying hidden malicious spyware? Anti-Virus software is designed to prevent unauthorized changes (infection) of the files on your computer system. Your Anti-Virus can scan files for spyware before they are downloaded to your system. Unfortunately, files acquired through Limewire may only be checked once they are on your system and usually require a manual scan, proving this a near useless way of preventing infection.
What happens if a shared file does contain a virus?
Best case scenario: Upon execution of the infected file (opening or playing it) your Anti-Virus responds, terminating the file and the application running it and hopefully preventing it from having any effect on your system.
Worst case scenario: These days, most viruses are written to immediately disable Anti-Virus programs when they are activated, crippling your computer’s defenses and allowing it full leeway to make changes to your system files.
The solutions…
Avoid peer to peer file sharing programs; just as you wouldn’t give the keys for your house to strangers, protecting your computer and your information from unauthorized access is important. Remember, viruses that slow down your computer aren’t the only risks of openly sharing files; identity theft is a common crime in environments where systems are left open to one another.
If you notice a sudden change in your computer’s performance, are unable to open or run certain programs, see random popup advertisements, or any other unusual behavior, bring it in for service right away. Viruses often become worse over time, corrupt and destroy your documents, and may permanently damage core system files of your computer, requiring you to do a complete system restore.
Other tips:
Allow your Anti-Virus to search for updates and apply them frequently. Over 400 new malware applications are identified every day so it’s important that your Anti-Virus gets the updates to stay current.
Keep your Anti-Virus from expiring. Is it time to get another yearly subscription? Statistically, an unprotected system is attacked within 20 seconds of connecting to the internet; don’t put it off and leave yourself vulnerable. Anti-Virus software is often so good at eliminating harmful attempts to access your system that you don’t even notice what it is preventing, or how much you need it.
Always keep the Application and System CDs that come with your computer in a safe place where you will be able to find them easily. In the event that your system needs to be restored, you will need these.
Worried about your computer, or just want to bring it in for a tune up?
Aspire Technology Solutions provides an all in one PC Tune Up service designed to increase the performance and lifespan of your system.
