Technology > Computer Virus?

What is a Computer Virus?

A virus is a small piece of software that piggybacks on real programs. For example, a virus might attach itself to a program such as a spreadsheet program. Each time the spreadsheet program runs, the virus runs, too, and it has the chance to reproduce (by attaching to other programs).

What is a Trojan Horse?

A Trojan horse is simply a computer program. The program claims to do one thing (it may claim to be a game) but instead does damage when you run it (it may erase your hard disk). Trojan horses have no way to replicate automatically.

What is a Worm?

A worm is a small piece of software that uses computer networks and security holes to replicate itself. It spreads by exploiting vulnerabilities in an operating system. A copy of the worm scans the network for another machine that has a specific security hole. It copies itself to the new machine using the security hole, and then starts replicating from there, as well.

To learn more about Viruses, Trojan horses and worms please click here.

What is Malware/Spyware/Adware?

These three terms all mean the same thing; they are unwanted software that cause harm to your computer by using up system resources (causing your computer to run slow) and providing security holes into your computer. Toolbars (toolbars are not all bad but they can lead to getting this type of infection), file sharing programs (such as limewire), computer games, and weird downloads from shady websites are all common places where these types of infection can occur.

What is Phishing?

Phishing is the criminally fraudulent process of attempting to acquire sensitive information such as usernames, passwords and credit card details by impersonating as a trustworthy entity in an email or website.

How do I protect my computer?

Please click here to find out.