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Computer viruses
Has your business been targeted by fraudsters?
Contact us right away to report a scam. We can then guide you on what to do next.
How to spot and avoid ransomware
Ransomware is one type of virus that fraudsters can use to block files or data on your device until you pay a ransom. They can also threaten to publish your data.
In this video (1 min 59 secs), we show how a ransomware virus can attack a business.
Tips to beat computer viruses
To protect your business, create a multi-layered defence plan. Write down the plan so all of your colleagues know what to do.
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Before you download anything to a device at work, make sure you know and trust where it came from.
Fraudsters can phone or message your business pretending to be your bank, internet service provider or some other well-known organisation.
They may tell you there’s a problem with your bank account, or internet speed or some other issue.
The scam is to get you to download software. But this is usually a virus that gives them control of your device without you knowing. They can then get any passwords or other secure codes you enter.
Please visit our scam calls and scam messages pages to learn more on how to spot these scams.
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Make a copy of all your files and data to keep in a secure location. Try to find a location that’s away from your daily workplace.
Always have more than one backup and several locations to store them in.
You could use an external hard drive or device, or a cloud service.
After you use a backup device, make sure it’s disconnected from your network and systems.
Back up your files and data regularly to make sure you don’t lose anything important.
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Your IT provider or IT team should be able to help reduce the chance of a virus getting through. Ask if they can:
- filter your mail and block spam
- stop traffic to suspicious websites
- block harmful code
- give safe browsing lists within your web browsers.
If work devices use apps, make sure the apps come from a source you can trust, like an official app store.
Always check that an app is safe before you download it by:
- checking reviews
- reading the permissions. Do they match the app’s purpose?
- reading the terms and conditions.
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Install an antivirus on all work devices. Make sure you keep it up to date.
Scan at least once a week and follow its advice. It should tell you if a site is safe to visit, or a file is unsafe to download or open.
Always keep your firewall on. This helps to stop people from breaking into your computer.
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Update the operating system (OS) on all your devices as soon as updates are available. The OS runs all the programs and apps. It also helps to keep a device safe from a virus.
Keep all the software you use and your internet browser up-to-date.
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If you need to use a backup to recover your data, first scan it for any viruses. Only connect to a virus-free device.
Make sure you keep the backup device or product up-to-date and secure.
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Have an action plan ready that tells you who to contact and how to react if a virus attack happens.
For extra protection, consider taking out cyber insurance to cover your business. Insurers can organise cyber expertise to support your business during an attack.
Learn more on how to protect your business from viruses on the National Cyber Security Centre.