Viruses

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Viruses
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Viruses, Trojans, Worms

• Virus - a program that attaches itself to a host,
  and copies itself onto new files/disks
• Macro viruses - small program written using a
  macro language for a specific program that
  executes when a document is opened.
• Trojan horse - a program that slips into the
  system using a disguise (a game, screen saver)
• Worm - like a virus, but it reproduces and works
  over networks
• Some are harmless, but many are destructive.

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Avoiding Viruses, Worms, etc.

• Use antivirus software and update it regularly
• Keep floppy disks out of your floppy drive unless
  you are working on them.
• Consider disabling Java and Javascript
  capabilities on your Web browser
• Back up files
• Disconnect your computer from Net when done.
• Do not open strange email attachments

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Avoiding Viruses, Worms, etc.

• Viruses and email
• You cannot get a virus from a plain text message.
• Attachments can carry viruses or be a trojan
  horse
• Save attachments to the hard drive before you
  open it.
• See p. 62 for helpful tips for setting up mailer
  programs to save files automatically
• Do not take the filename by face value.
• Delete unexpected attachments