Computer Virus and how to prevent it
It happens to the best of us, even governments. A computer virus is incredibly stressful, especially when all of our lives are so dependent on functioning computers.
When dealing with a virus, it’s essential to understand what you’re up against, including all the different types of computer viruses that you could be facing.
What is a Computer Virus?
A computer virus is a program that can harm our device and files and infect them for no further use. When a virus program is executed, it replicates itself by modifying other computer programs and instead enters its own coding. This code infects a file or program and if it spreads massively, it may ultimately result in the crashing of the device.
Types of Computer Virus
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Direct Action Virus
Sometimes known as a file infector virus, these viruses work by attaching themselves to .exe or .com files. Once the files have been executed or installed.
They can use this initial file to access the other files on your computer and start spreading. Direct action viruses can hinder your ability to access files. However, if you have a good level of computer virus protection, then your anti-virus software should be able to get rid of these easily.
Resident Virus – A virus that saves itself in the memory of the computer and then infects other files and programs when its originating program is no longer working. This virus can easily infect other files because it is hidden in the memory and is hard to be removed from the system.
Multipartite Virus – A virus that can attack both, the boot sector and the executable files of an already infected computer is called a multipartite virus. If a multipartite virus attacks your system, you are at risk of cyber threat.
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Polymorphic Virus
As the name speaks for itself, the polymorphic virus applies polymorphism on them by encoding themselves. The virus uses different algorithms and encryption keys every time they attack an application or a program or makes a duplicate of itself. On account of various encryption keys, this virus turns out to be extremely hard for the antivirus program to discover. This virus is self-encrypted which makes it difficult to get detected by scanners.
Target: The whole program in the directory
Examples: Whale, SMEG motor, Simile, 1260
How to protect: Install high-quality advanced antivirus
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Web Scripting Virus
This scripting virus penetrates the browser security and permits hackers to inject client-side malicious scripting into the site page. Web scripting viruses are easy to spread as compared to other viruses. A web scripting virus is a programming code written in the core of an application, controlling the elements and behavior of that application.
A web scripting virus normally originates from webpage ads and so is widespread. Web scripting viruses can be appended to on the clickable media, for example, videos, images, or links.
Target: Any web page
Examples: JS.fornight, DDos
How to protect: Use Windows MSRT, explore cookie security options, disable scripts, or install real-time protection software on your website.
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Macro Computer Virus
Macro viruses are commonly found in programs like Word and Excel. This is because Word and Excel are written in macro language, which the computer virus attempts to mimic to gain access to your files.
They’re very deceptive, as what can seem like a simple Word document. But, when you click on the document your computer will either become infected right away, or you’ll be redirected to a malicious website.
If that wasn’t enough, these computer viruses could often send themselves out to others through your contact list. It’s important to get a macro virus sorted straight away.
What to Do About Computer Viruses
The first thing to know is that early action is always easier than reaction. Having a firewall and some anti-virus software is an excellent place to start. Also, take some time to learn about viruses. When you know where and when you’re likely to come across one, you can take action needed to avoid infection.
Of course, sometimes you just get caught a cold. If you’ve got a virus that can be easily dealt with at home, then go ahead and boot up your anti-virus software and run a scan. The software will scan the entire system for signs of a computer virus and then eradicate any that it is capable of getting rid of.
Sometimes this isn’t possible. If you think you’ve got a more severe virus that you can’t get rid of yourself, you’ll need to take your computer to an expert to get it assessed. These companies have the know-how and experience to track down even the most evasive computer viruses.
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