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The term ‘virus’ has come to stand in for any dangerous or destructive computer programs but is technically only one of three main types of malicious software, or malware that can penetrate and damage your computer system and/or perform unwanted or unauthorized functions.
Each form of malware is essentially a software program designed to run specific applications on a computer. Some are programmed to damage or delete files, others to take over bandwidth and allow third party access to personal information or to send and receive information via the victim’s IP address.
All viruses are code written to perform or fulfill a specific task. Some are merely annoying and might do no more than put a silly message on your screen. Others are destructive and programmed to delete information or destroy the hard disk.
Viruses are mainly spread through emails and are launched when the receiver unknowingly executes the program by opening the attached file. Viruses are predominantly designed to attack and spread throughout the computers on which they have been executed, spreading from file to file throughout the computer, rendering programs delayed or inaccessible.
The virus works by placing itself in the computer’s memory then attaching itself to any programs that are executed. Once infected, every time the program runs the infected file will duplicate itself. Over time a virus that began as very small becomes larger and larger until eventually it is bigger than the original files and the programs are no longer able to run.
Trojans are primordially used to penetrate computers and establish back doors through which hackers can remotely control the system, access personal information and hijack the IP address. Unlike viruses and worms Trojans are not self-replicating and instead run in the background of the computer, avoiding detection and acting as inside guys for the hacker. Once a hacker has gained remote access of the system they can then issue commands, retrieve sensitive and personal information and route illegal data through the victim’s IP address to shield themselves and their actual location from detection.
Worms are similar to viruses in that they are self-replicating and do not require a specific file to spread. Worms reside in active memory and are programmed to spread themselves through networks gaining access to multiple ports and IP addresses rather than infect and immobilize a single host computer. Like Trojans, worms are used to penetrate computers, most often computer networks and establish back doors to provide remote access of networks of computer including the use of bandwidth that will interfere with and slow the functioning of the computer and the network as well as IP addresses that are useful to spammers and credit thieves.
There are many ways to protect your computer or computer network from malicious software. First, install a router or a software firewall to monitor data exchanged over the Internet. Install up to date antivirus software and frequently check for updates to known virus definitions and be vigilant in checking the source and content of data files before downloading and/or opening attachments.
Kate Dubensky | June 5th, 2008
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