Week 7: Computer Viruses - M199205zn/IAS-CS4 GitHub Wiki

Computer Viruses and Their Impact

A computer virus is a type of malicious software (malware) designed to spread from one system to another, often causing harm in the process. Viruses attach themselves to legitimate files or programs and execute their malicious code when the infected file or program is opened.

How Computer Viruses Harm a System

  1. Data Corruption and Loss – Some viruses delete or modify files, making important data inaccessible.
  2. System Performance Issues – A virus can slow down a computer by consuming system resources, leading to frequent crashes and unresponsiveness.
  3. Unauthorized Access – Certain viruses, such as Trojans, create backdoors that allow hackers to steal sensitive information.
  4. Spreading to Other Systems – Viruses can spread through email attachments, USB drives, or network connections, infecting other devices.
  5. Disrupting Operations – Some viruses are designed to disable critical services, such as firewalls and antivirus software, leaving the system vulnerable.

Solutions to Get Rid of or Minimize Computer Viruses

1. Use Reliable Antivirus Software

  • Install a reputable antivirus program and keep it updated to detect and remove viruses.
  • Enable real-time scanning to block threats before they cause harm.

2. Keep the Operating System and Software Updated

  • Regular updates patch security vulnerabilities that viruses exploit.
  • Enable automatic updates for operating systems, browsers, and applications.

3. Avoid Downloading Suspicious Files

  • Do not open email attachments from unknown senders.
  • Avoid downloading files or software from untrusted sources.

4. Enable a Firewall

  • A firewall monitors incoming and outgoing traffic, blocking malicious connections.
  • Use both hardware (router-based) and software firewalls for better protection.

5. Use Strong Passwords and Multi-Factor Authentication

  • Prevent unauthorized access by using strong passwords.
  • Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for added security.

6. Backup Important Data Regularly

  • Maintain backups on external drives or cloud storage.
  • If a virus corrupts your system, you can restore data from a clean backup.

7. Scan External Storage Devices

  • Scan USB drives and external hard disks before accessing their contents.
  • Disable auto-run features to prevent automatic execution of malicious files.

8. Be Cautious with Online Activities

  • Avoid clicking on suspicious ads or pop-ups.
  • Use a secure browser and enable privacy settings.