Discuss about Computer viruses and their effects
Answers
Answer:
A computer virus is a malicious program that self-replicates by copying itself to another program. ... A successful breach can cause serious issues for the user such as infecting other resources or system software, modifying or deleting key functions or applications and copy/delete or encrypt data.
Explanation:
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Answer:
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 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.
Types of 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.
Effects of virus
Сomputer viruses are wholly dependent on their hosts. Just like their biological twins, this type of malware doesn’t alert you after it has infected your computer. Rather, it tries to remain unnoticed for as long as possible. So, what does a computer virus look like in terms of symptoms? Below are the most common signs.
Slower operating speed
Running programs in the background slows down the computer’s speed. Since a virus is designed to perform specific actions on your computer, poorer performance is inevitable. So, if your computer takes ages to start or programs are taking longer than usual to open, you might have caught a virus.
Issues with programs and files
Are there missing files? Are you unable to open certain applications? Do unknown programs start when you turn on your computer? Or, have new files, folders, or applications appeared on your hard drive, ostensibly out of nowhere? If so, then chances are malware has taken over.
You see, similar to biological viruses, computer viruses are known for their ability to attach to files and applications as they exist at the expense of these hosts. So, it isn’t surprising to see the first symptoms of a virus when working with your files and applications.
The most common target of viruses is system files. Without them, a computer system might not function correctly or at all. Thus, by infecting these files, a hacker can target the entire system. Such modifications won't just cause problems for the system itself but can also help the hacker control your computer remotely.
Weird behavior
The effects of computer viruses are only limited by the hacker’s creativity. For example, after infecting the user’s computer, the Elk Cloner virus displayed a poem threatening to ‘stick to you like glue’.
The Ika-Tako virus replaced all files, programs, and documents with pictures of cuddly squids. If your mouse pointer starts jumping around the screen, it most likely isn’t a poltergeist – it’s probably either a drop of water on your touchpad or a computer virus.
Other effects
Certainly, poor performance, issues with programs and files, and weird behavior are not the only symptoms of infection by computer viruses. For example, if people from your contacts list start receiving strange attachments from you, it’s probably the sign of a virus at work (don’t forget to immediately change your passwords and ask everyone NOT to open all those attachments). Or the fact a virus is busy self-reproducing via the web might lead to high network traffic (here's how you can check your network traffic).
The other warning signs of a virus include your browser home page redirecting you to an unfamiliar website, your hard drive space suddenly running out, your system freezing for no reason, or your battery draining much quicker than usual.