Virus Threat to Data

What are Viruses

Just like the biological virus, a computer virus too spreads from pc to pc. Once a virus infects the computer, it either deletes or corrupts the data. At times it might also erase everything on the hard disk.

How are Viruses Created

People who intend to flaunt their knowledge of computers write such programs. After gaining a little knowledge, they write the virus, test and spread it. It is not very difficult to create a virus. (The Melissa virus and ILOVEYOU virus were easy programs.) However, these simple programs affected millions of computer users around the world. People lost expensive data stored on their computers. Strict legislations have been enforced to deal with such offenders.

Generally, these creators of virus are not malicious. They just find a loop hole in technology and try to reveal it to the world. In the process, they fail to reckon the extent of damage they do. (The destruction wrought by Klez virus cost $8 to $9, 9 billion) Once they unleash the destruction, they simply enjoy the devastating effect of their handiwork.

How Do They Spread

One of the most common methods used for spreading the virus is by sending it via an email. The virus, usually replicates itself to all the addresses in the victim’s email address book.

• Viruses are also spread via downloads from the internet.


• People working on systems networked with other computers are at greater risk. The virus in one computer infects all others instantly.


• Portable media like a CD, floppy or flash drive, might contain a virus. When used for data transfer, they corrupt the pc.

• An anti virus program is required to rid the computer of viruses. This software has to be installed from the antivirus software manufacturers’ website.


• The software has to be run to scan the computer. At times the computer might have to be rebooted once the software is installed. The system has to be then scanned manually. Even if the software is not able to delete the virus, it can identify it.


• Programs that help eliminate the virus must be installed.


• Running another anti virus software confirms that the computer has been cleared of virus.
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Article Source: http://www.myaddirectory.com

James Walsh is a freelance writer and copy editor. If you are concerned about data loss and would like more information on Data Recovery see www.fields-data-recovery.co.uk

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