Summary
Some computer viruses become so widespread and cause so much damage that they become infamous. A virus is a malicious program that aims to delete data and damage the hardware of the device. Updating Windows and using their security services ensures a computer will be kept safe.
What is a computer virus?
A computer virus is a malicious program that intends to damage the data and system of a computer. A virus spreads from computer to computer to cause as much damage as possible. A virus requires human action to activate, from opening an infected email or downloading from suspicious links. Once a virus is installed, it infects files and systems on the computer. A computer worm is not considered to be a virus as it does not need user interaction to spread. However, despite worms not being considered as viruses, they’re commonly listed together as both are different forms of malware.
Infamous computer viruses.
ILOVEYOU
ILOVEYOU was an infamous worm in the 2000’s. Users would get an email saying “I love you” and when they opened the email, it changed files on the computer and sent itself to everyone in your outlooks contact list. The worm spread from person to person using this method causing massive damage to personal files and networks.
WannaCry
WannaCry was a ransomware virus that would take over the computer and demand money to free it. 200,000 computers worldwide were taken hostage by the ransomware. WannaCry had a built in kill switch which was used to stop the virus. It’s unknown how much money WannaCry made.
Mydoom
Mydoom is a computer worm spread by email. The worm at one point was responsible for twenty-five percent of all emails sent. Mydoom would create a network of infected machines called a botnet to commit DDoS attacks (read more about DDoS here). Twenty-two years after Mydoom’s creation, it is still active and sending phishing emails. The creator of Mydoom was never caught despite having a $250,000 bounty placed on them.
Zeus
Zeus was a computer virus that specialized in taking over bank computers. The botnet would run programs to take over machines and access financial information. When Zeus’s creators were caught over one hundred people were arrested in connection to the program.
CryptoLocker
Cryptolocker was another ransomware virus but came before WannaCry and may have inspired it. The virus would take files and display a message telling you to pay to get it back. The virus used a worm named Gameover Zeus to spread the virus.
How to protect from computer viruses.
Stay up to date with Windows software updates. Viruses are built to exploit flaws in older software that is not receiving patches or updates, can easily be infiltrated. Windows also has a built-in feature to protect from viruses called Windows Security, which scans the computer’s files to look for infected files. This service will provide a notification if any are found. Another method of protection is being cautious of what you download and open online. Viruses can be easily avoided by following these steps and ensuring a safe virus free device.
Contact ProNet for all of your cybersecurity needs.
Sources:
Fortinet’s article on computer viruses