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A Computer Virus Is A Type of Computer Program That

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44 views

A Computer Virus Is A Type of Computer Program That

Uploaded by

Saddeequ
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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A computer virus is a type of computer program that, when executed, replicates itself by modifying

other computer programs and inserting its own code. If this replication succeeds, the affected areas
are then said to be "infected" with a computer virus.

A computer virus, much like a flu virus, is designed to spread from host to host and has
the ability to replicate itself. Similarly, in the same way that flu viruses cannot reproduce
without a host cell, computer viruses cannot reproduce and spread without
programming such as a file or document.
In more technical terms, a computer virus is a type of malicious code or program written
to alter the way a computer operates and is designed to spread from one computer to
another. A virus operates by inserting or attaching itself to a legitimate program or
document that supports macros(Macros are sequences of events (such as keystrokes,
mouse clicks, and delays) that can be played back to help with repetitive tasks.) in order to
execute its code. In the process, a virus has the potential to cause unexpected or
damaging effects, such as harming the system software by corrupting or destroying
data.

How does a computer virus attack?


Once a virus has successfully attached to a program, file, or document, the virus will lie
dormant until circumstances cause the computer or device to execute its code. In order
for a virus to infect your computer, you have to run the infected program, which in turn
causes the virus code to be executed.
This means that a virus can remain dormant on your computer, without showing major
signs or symptoms. However, once the virus infects your computer, the virus can infect
other computers on the same network. Stealing passwords or data, logging
keystrokes(Keystroke logging is an act of tracking and recording every keystroke entry made
on a computer, often without the permission or knowledge of the user.), corrupting files,
spamming your email contacts(Spamming is the use of messaging systems to send an
unsolicited message to large numbers of recipients for the purpose of commercial advertising, for the
purpose of non-commercial proselytizing, or for any prohibited purpose.), and even taking over
your machine are just some of the devastating and irritating things a virus can do.
While some viruses can be playful in intent and effect, others can have profound and
damaging effects. This includes erasing data or causing permanent damage to your
hard disk. Worse yet, some viruses are designed with financial gains in mind.

How do computer viruses spread?


In a constantly connected world, you can contract a computer virus in many ways, some
more obvious than others. Viruses can be spread through email and text message
attachments, Internet file downloads, and social media scam links. Your mobile devices
and smartphones can become infected with mobile viruses through shady app
downloads. Viruses can hide disguised as attachments of socially shareable content
such as funny images, greeting cards, or audio and video files.
To avoid contact with a virus, it’s important to exercise caution when surfing the web,
downloading files, and opening links or attachments. To help stay safe, never download
text or email attachments that you’re not expecting, or files from websites you don’t
trust.

What are the signs of a computer virus?


A computer virus attack can produce a variety of symptoms. Here are some of them:

 Frequent pop-up windows. Pop-ups might encourage you to visit unusual sites.
Or they might prod you to download antivirus or other software programs.
 Changes to your homepage. Your usual homepage may change to another
website, for instance. Plus, you may be unable to reset it.
 Mass emails being sent from your email account. A criminal may take control
of your account or send emails in your name from another infected computer.
 Frequent crashes. A virus can inflict major damage on your hard drive. This
may cause your device to freeze or crash. It may also prevent your device from
coming back on.
 Unusually slow computer performance. A sudden change of processing
speed could signal that your computer has a virus.
 Unknown programs that start up when you turn on your computer. You may
become aware of the unfamiliar program when you start your computer. Or you
might notice it by checking your computer’s list of active applications.
 Unusual activities like password changes. This could prevent you from
logging into your computer.

How to help protect against computer


viruses?
How can you help protect your devices against computer viruses? Here are some of the
things you can do to help keep your computer safe.

 Use a trusted antivirus product, such as Norton AntiVirus Basic etc, and keep it
updated with the latest virus definitions. Norton Security Premium offers
additional protection for even more devices, plus backup.
 Avoid clicking on any pop-up advertisements.
 Always scan your email attachments before opening them.
 Always scan the files that you download using file sharing programs.
What are the different types of computer
viruses?
1. Boot sector virus
This type of virus can take control when you start — or boot — your computer.
One way it can spread is by plugging an infected USB drive into your computer.

2. Web scripting virus


This type of virus exploits the code of web browsers and web pages. If you
access such a web page, the virus can infect your computer.

3. Browser hijacker
This type of virus “hijacks” certain web browser functions, and you may be
automatically directed to an unintended website.

4. Resident virus
This is a general term for any virus that inserts itself in a computer system’s
memory. A resident virus can execute anytime when an operating system loads.

5. Direct action virus


This type of virus comes into action when you execute a file containing a virus.
Otherwise, it remains dormant.

6. Polymorphic virus
A polymorphic virus changes its code each time an infected file is executed. It
does this to evade antivirus programs.

7. File infector virus


This common virus inserts malicious code into executable files — files used to
perform certain functions or operations on a system.
8. Multipartite virus
This kind of virus infects and spreads in multiple ways. It can infect both program
files and system sectors.

9. Macro virus
Macro viruses are written in the same macro language used for software
applications. Such viruses spread when you open an infected document, often
through email attachments.

How to remove computer viruses


You can take two approaches to removing a computer virus. One is the manual do-it-
yourself approach. The other is by enlisting the help of a reputable antivirus program.
Want to do it yourself? There can be a lot of variables when it comes to removing a
computer virus. This process usually begins by doing a web search. You may be asked
to perform a long list of steps. You’ll need time and probably some expertise to
complete the process.
If you prefer a simpler approach, you can usually remove a computer virus by using an
antivirus software program. For instance, Norton AntiVirus Basic etc can remove many
infections that are on your computer. The product can also help protect you from future
threats.
Separately, Norton also offers a free, three-step virus clean-up plan. Here’s how it
works.

1. Run a free Norton Security Scan to check for viruses and malware on your
devices. Note: It does not run on Mac OS.
2. Use Norton Power Eraser’s free virus and malware removal tool to destroy
existing viruses. Need help? A Norton tech can assist by remotely accessing
your computer to track down and eliminate most viruses.
3. Install up-to-date security software to help prevent future malware and virus
threats.

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