Viruses can infect many different types of files or programs – critical programs used by the operating system; document files such as Word or Excel; even specialized firmware programs tied to the computer’s hardware, like the Master Boot Record (MBR).
Can a flash drive have a virus?
An infected computer can spread a virus to a clean USB thumb drive that is inserted. That USB drive will then be spreading the virus onto other computers if the operating system on those machines has an AutoRun-type feature enabled.
Can virus be transferred through CD?
The problem is that a virus on a CD-Rom can spread to the computer system that reads it . Transmission can occur via small functional programs, such as routines that will speed up access to the information, included on the disc in addition to the bulk data itself.
Can viruses spread through Internet?
Viruses can be spread through email and text message attachments, Internet file downloads , and social media scam links. Your mobile devices and smartphones can become infected with mobile viruses through shady app downloads.
Can a virus steal your files?
A virus can damage programs, delete files and reformat or erase your hard drive, which results in reduced performance or even crashing your system entirely. Hackers can also use viruses to access your personal information to steal or destroy your data.
How can I clean my phone from viruses?
- Power off the phone and reboot in safe mode. Press the power button to access the Power Off options. ...
- Uninstall the suspicious app. ...
- Look for other apps you think may be infected. ...
- Install a robust mobile security app on your phone.
Can a virus execute itself?
A virus must meet two criteria: It must execute itself . It will often place its own code in the path of execution of another program. It must replicate itself.
Is iloveyou a virus or worm?
Although ILOVEYOU, also known as the Love Bug at the time, is commonly referred to as a computer virus, more specifically it’s a worm .
What is the difference between a worm and a virus?
The primary difference between a virus and a worm is that viruses must be triggered by the activation of their host ; whereas worms are stand-alone malicious programs that can self-replicate and propagate independently as soon as they have breached the system.
How can you prevent your computer from being infected by a virus?
- Install antivirus software. ...
- Be careful with email attachments. ...
- Patch your operating system and applications. ...
- Avoid questionable websites. ...
- Avoid pirated software. ...
- Backup your computer.
Is malware worse than a virus?
By its definition malware is malicious software, so viruses are actually a type of malware. Lots of people think that malware is fairly harmless and that viruses are the scary bad guys that will wreck their computer. Truth: Viruses are a type of malware.
How do I get rid of a virus?
- Step 1: Enter Safe Mode. Hold the Shift key, then restart your computer by opening the Windows menu, clicking the power icon, and clicking Restart. ...
- Step 2: Delete temporary files. ...
- Step 3: Download a Virus Scanner. ...
- Step 4: Run a Virus Scan.
Can a virus see your passwords?
Nowadays, the criminals behind the infections usually want your computer operating in top form so you don’t know something’s wrong. That way, they can log your keystrokes and steal any passwords or credit-card numbers you enter at Web sites, or they can link your infected computer with others to send out spam.
Which app is best for removing virus?
Windows Defender lacks many essential features that other free antiviruses provide, and routinely blocks safe or harmless files. It’s far better to use a professional free virus scanner
Can an iPhone get a virus?
Can iPhones get viruses? Fortunately for Apple fans, iPhone viruses are extremely rare, but not unheard of . While generally secure, one of the ways iPhones may become vulnerable to viruses is when they are ‘jailbroken’. Jailbreaking an iPhone is a bit like unlocking it — but less legitimate.
What happens if a virus gets on your phone?
While a traditional virus replicates itself while running, viruses on mobile devices target weak points within your operating system for data-mining, financial gain, or to corrupt a network .
