Understanding Computer Viruses: Safeguarding Your Photos
Recently, my husband inadvertently exposed our computer to a serious virus by clicking on a deceptive link found on a blog. Although the exact implications of the virus remain unclear, it significantly disrupted our computer’s functionality, making it quite challenging to operate after the reset. To add to the chaos, the virus altered our desktop background and even prompted a suspicious phone call from someone pretending to be from Microsoft, who alarmingly knew the last four digits of our bank account. Thankfully, my husband was savvy enough to dismiss it as a scam and ended the call.
In the midst of this technological upheaval, I realized I have a treasure trove of photographs that I’ve been meaning to transfer to a USB drive – a classic case of procrastination. I managed to revert the system back to a restore point from about a week ago in hopes of securely saving those precious images to a clean USB device. However, despite Windows Defender not detecting any threats, it had not raised any alarms previously either.
We are contemplating performing a factory reset on the computer to ensure any remnants of the virus are eradicated, but I find myself worrying about the likelihood of the virus affecting the photos I aim to save. Is it possible that the malware could attach itself to my images?
If you’re in a similar situation, here are a few vital considerations:
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Photo Safety: Generally, personal photos are not carriers for viruses. However, if a virus infiltrated your system, it’s always better to be cautious. Utilize an external drive that is not connected to your compromised system to transfer files.
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Scanning and Verification: Before saving your photos, conduct a thorough antivirus scan on both the original computer and the USB drive. This extra layer of security could potentially uncover hidden threats.
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Backup Regularly: This incident has highlighted the importance of regular backups. Consider using cloud storage solutions or dedicated backup software for your important files moving forward.
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Stay Informed: Educating yourself on the latest cybersecurity threats can empower you to better recognize scams and protect your personal information.
Ultimately, while the situation feels daunting, taking proactive steps can help safeguard your cherished memories and restore your computer’s functionality. If you have faced a similar ordeal or have additional insights, sharing your experiences can help others navigate these challenges effectively.
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