Virus

Computer Virus

• Definition:

  • A malicious software program that can replicate itself by attaching to other programs or files.
  • When executed, a virus can spread to other computers, often causing harm or disruption to the infected system.

• Key Characteristics:

  • Self-Replication: The defining characteristic of a virus is its ability to self-replicate and spread to other systems.
  • Malicious Intent: Viruses are designed to cause harm, such as:
    • Data Corruption: Deleting or modifying files.
    • System Disruption: Crashing the system, slowing down performance, or interfering with normal operations.
    • Data Theft: Stealing sensitive information, such as passwords, credit card details, and personal information.
    • Backdoor Creation: Creating backdoors that allow attackers to gain remote access to the infected system.
    • Spreading Infection: Spreading to other systems through various means, such as email attachments, infected files, and network connections.

• Types of Viruses:

  • File Viruses: Infect executable files (e.g., .exe, .com) by attaching their code to the host program.
  • Boot Sector Viruses: Infect the master boot record (MBR) of a hard drive, disrupting the boot process.
  • Macro Viruses: Infect documents created in applications that support macros (e.g., Microsoft Word, Excel), such as by embedding malicious code within the document itself.
  • Worm Viruses: Self-replicating malware that can spread independently across networks without human interaction.
  • Polymorphic Viruses: Constantly change their code to avoid detection by antivirus software.

• Methods of Infection:

  • Email Attachments: Viruses are often spread through email attachments, such as infected documents, spreadsheets, or executable files.
  • Infected Downloads: Downloading and executing infected files from untrusted sources.
  • Removable Media: Spreading through infected USB drives, external hard drives, or other removable media.
  • Network Shares: Spreading across a network, infecting other computers connected to the same network.

• Impact:

  • Data Loss: Data corruption and deletion.
  • System Disruption: System crashes, slow performance, and instability.
  • Security Breaches: Data theft, unauthorized access, and system compromise.
  • Financial Loss: Loss of productivity, repair costs, and potential legal and reputational damage.

• Prevention:

  • Antivirus Software: Regularly updating and running antivirus software.
  • Software Updates: Keeping software updated with the latest security patches.
  • Email Security: Be wary of suspicious emails and attachments.
  • Backups: Regularly backing up important data to prevent data loss.
  • User Education: Educating users about the risks of viruses and how to avoid infection.