Computer virus

Computer virus

1. Can

   • Infect executable files and operating system program
   • Infect disks by attaching to boot records in hard disk
   • Infect file before it is attached to email message / transferred to disk, therefore spreads from one computer to another

2. Cannot

   • Infect files on write protected disks
   • Infect computer hardware

3. Made by

   • Hackers
     • Hackers refers to people who use their skills to enter into computer systems without permission.
   • Crackers
     • A cracker is a malicious programmer who gains unauthorised access to computer systems for the purpose of stealing/corrupting information. 

4. Types

   • Overwrite viruses
   • Boot viruses
   • Macros viruses
   • Directory viruses
   • File infectors
   • Malware
   • Spyware
   • Worms
   • Sweeper
   • Trojans/Trojan horses
   • Logic bombs