There are still many different types of computer viruses roaming the Internet. However, it seems that they do not scare people so much anymore.
On the one hand, antivirus and anti-malware software has become much more effective in detecting and removing viruses. Almost all operating systems on the market have them built in, and some tech giants like Apple and Samsung have even developed their own programs to provide users with a safer experience and protect their privacy, meaning they are less likely to get infected with a virus in the first place.
On the other hand, people are more aware of the dangers of cyber threats such as viruses, malware and ransomware. This means they are more likely to take steps to protect themselves, such as using strong passwords, being careful about what they click on, and keeping their software up to date.
I have not seen a computer virus in at least seven years, but I remember the last time I was hit by one like it was yesterday. At the time, I was a student and had just spent three days working on a big project. I was so close to finishing it, but then my computer got a virus. I did not know what to do, and I did not have any backups. I tried everything I could think of to fix it, but nothing worked. In the end, I was so frustrated that I literally threw my computer into the trash can one rainy night to end my misery.
I still laugh about it today, but at the time it was a pretty traumatic experience. I learned a valuable lesson that day: always back up your important files and never open emails from people you do not know. And if you do get a virus, do not panic. There are plenty of people who can help you fix the problem.
The consequences of computer viral infection are also less severe. In the past, viruses could cause a lot of damage, for example by deleting files or crashing computers. But today, most viruses are more annoying than harmful. They might steal your personal data (which we have already become used to and kind of jaded about) or redirect your Internet traffic, but they are unlikely to do anything that seriously damages your computer or devices.
Of course, viruses are still a threat, and we should always be careful about what we click on and download. But the fact is that they do not scare us as much as they used to, because we are more aware of the risks and there are more security measures that protect us.
