How to Prevent Boot Sector Virus Infection?
- Use Antivirus Software: Always have reliable and updated antivirus software installed on your computer. Modern antivirus programs can detect and remove boot sector viruses.
- Keep Your Software Updated: Regularly update your operating system and all installed software to fix security vulnerabilities that could be exploited by viruses.
- Enable Boot Protection in BIOS/UEFI: Many modern computers allow you to enable settings that prevent unauthorized code from executing during the boot process. BIOS/UEFI can help protect against boot sector viruses.
- Don’t Boot from Unknown Media: Avoid booting your computer from CDs, DVDs, or USB drives that you do not trust or that have not been scanned for viruses.
- Download from Reputable Sources: Only download software and files from well-known and trusted websites. Avoid pirated software and torrents, which are common sources of malware.
- Use Email Wisely: Do not open email attachments from unknown senders, and be cautious even with attachments from people you know if they look suspicious or are unexpected.
- Regular Backups: Maintain regular backups of your sensitive data, this can prevent device from boot sector virus.
What is a Boot Sector Virus? (Definition, Risks and Prevention)
A boot sector virus is a virus that infects either the boot sector of floppy discs or the Master Boot Record (MBR) of hard discs. The infected code starts when the boot sector virus system is booted from an infected disc, but once loaded, it infects subsequent floppy discs that are accessible in the infected machine. While boot sector viruses infect the BIOS, they spread to further floppy discs using DOS commands.