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Computer Virus Notes

A computer virus is a type of malware that replicates itself by modifying other programs and requires a host to execute. It can be categorized by target (e.g., file infectors, boot sector viruses) and behavior (e.g., resident, polymorphic). Common infection vectors include email attachments and malicious websites, while prevention methods involve antivirus software, firewalls, and user education.

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416 views3 pages

Computer Virus Notes

A computer virus is a type of malware that replicates itself by modifying other programs and requires a host to execute. It can be categorized by target (e.g., file infectors, boot sector viruses) and behavior (e.g., resident, polymorphic). Common infection vectors include email attachments and malicious websites, while prevention methods involve antivirus software, firewalls, and user education.

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online school
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Computer Virus Notes

Definition
A computer virus is a type of malicious software program ("malware")
that, when executed, replicates itself by modifying other computer
programs and inserting its own code.

Characteristics
1. Self-replicating: Spreads by copying itself to other files/programs
2. Requires host: Needs a host program to execute
3. Payload: May carry harmful instructions (not all viruses have
payloads)
4. Stealth: Often tries to hide its presence

Types of Viruses
By Target

1. File infectors: Attach to executable files (.exe, .com)


2. Boot sector viruses: Infect master boot record (MBR)
3. Macro viruses: Infect documents with macros (Word, Excel)
4. Script viruses: Written in scripting languages (JavaScript, VBScript)

By Behavior

1. Resident viruses: Load into memory and remain active


2. Non-resident viruses: Execute and spread only when host runs
3. Polymorphic viruses: Change code signature to avoid detection
4. Metamorphic viruses: Can rewrite themselves completely
5. Stealth viruses: Hide modifications from detection

Common Infection Vectors


1. Email attachments
2. Infected software downloads
3. Removable media (USB drives)
4. Network shares
5. Exploiting software vulnerabilities
6. Malicious websites/drive-by downloads

Symptoms of Infection
 Slow computer performance
 Frequent crashes/freezes
 Unknown processes running
 Changed file sizes/dates
 Unexpected pop-ups
 Disabled security software
 Missing/modified files
 Unusual network activity

Notable Historical Viruses


1. ILOVEYOU (2000): Spread via email attachment
2. Melissa (1999): Macro virus in Word docs
3. Code Red (2001): Exploited IIS web server
4. Slammer (2003): Fast-spreading SQL Server worm
5. WannaCry (2017): Ransomware worm

Prevention & Protection


1. Antivirus software: Install and keep updated
2. Firewalls: Block unauthorized network access
3. Regular updates: OS and application patches
4. User education: Don't open suspicious attachments
5. Backups: Regular data backups (air-gapped)
6. Least privilege: Don't use admin accounts for daily tasks
7. Disable macros: In office documents when possible

Removal
1. Boot into safe mode
2. Run antivirus scans
3. Use removal tools from reputable sources
4. Restore from clean backup if needed
5. In severe cases, reformat and reinstall OS

Legal Aspects
 Creating/distributing viruses is illegal in most jurisdictions
 Can result in heavy fines and imprisonment
 Victims may sue for damages

Difference Between Related Threats


 Worms: Self-replicate without host files
 Trojans: Disguised as legitimate software
 Ransomware: Encrypts files for ransom
 Spyware: Secretly monitors user activity

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