What is a Computer Virus?
A computer virus is a kind of malware that joins itself to another program such as a document, and once it is executed on a user's machine, it has the ability to expand and spread. The goal of computer viruses is to compromise systems, lead to serious problems with operations, and cause leaks and loss of data.
The fact that computer viruses are made to propagate among systems and applications is important information to know. When a file is opened, computer viruses usually attach to an executable host file and cause their viral programs to run. The malware then disseminates from the software or document to which it is attached through disks, file-sharing apps, networks, and infected email attachments.
Types of Computer Virus
- Resident Virus
- Polymorphic Virus
- Browser Hijacker
- Web Scripting Virus
- Boot Sector Virus
- File Infector Virus
- Macro Virus
- Multipartite Virus
1. Resident Virus
A resident virus is one that may stay in computer memory and wait for a payload to be given before becoming active again. This malware could remain inactive until a particular day, time, or user action is taken.
2. Polymorphic Virus
Polymorphic code is a tool that malware writers can employ to alter a program's footprint and avoid detection. As a result, it's harder for antivirus software to find and eliminate them.
3. Browser Hijacker
A computer virus that modifies browser settings has the ability to take control of your browser's bookmarks, home page URL, and search preferences, redirecting you to a malicious website. The website can be a malware or phishing page designed to steal information or generate revenue for the attacker.
4. Web Scripting Virus
The majority of browsers are protected from malicious online scripts, but there are flaws in older, unsupported versions that let attackers execute code locally.
5. Boot Sector Virus
A boot sector virus corrupts or takes over the drive's boot sector, making the computer inoperable. Typically, infected USB devices are used by attackers to disseminate this computer infection. When people boot up their computers after plugging in a USB device, the virus is activated.
6. File Infector Virus
Threat actors utilize file infector viruses to insert harmful code into vital files that power the operating system or crucial applications in order to remain active on a system. When the application executes or the machine boots up, the computer virus gets activated.
7. Macro Virus
Macro programs included in Microsoft Office files have the ability to execute malicious code or download more malware. When a file is opened and the macro is executed, macro viruses release their payload.
8. Multipartite Virus
These malicious programs replicate themselves or insert code into vital computer resources to propagate via a network or other computers.
Characteristics of Viruses
Payload
The virus's effect is known as the payload, and it can cause everything from little practical jokes to serious file and operating system damage, identity theft, or even the opening of backdoors for further assaults.
Replication
A virus's capacity to replicate itself onto other files, programs, or computers is one of its distinguishing characteristics. It is this process of replication that makes viruses so contagious and enduring as a danger.
Polymorphism
Polymorphic viruses are particularly challenging to remove because they can alter their code or signature to evade detection by antivirus software.
Stealth
A lot of viruses are made to hide from or disable antivirus software in order to avoid being detected. To stay hidden for as long as possible, they can change system files or conceal their code.
What is Anti-Virus Software?
Computers and mobile devices are protected from malware, hackers, and cybercriminals by antivirus software. Antivirus software is able to recognize, stop, and safeguard against dangerous software, infected links, and other dangers and suspicious activities by examining data on your hard drive and data that is incoming from the internet, including webpages, email messages and attachments, and applications.
