A computer virus is a part of a program designed specifically to damage files and prevent your computer from running smoothly. Typically, a virus spreads copies of itself throughout the computer to prevent it from working properly. Many viruses are relatively harmless; they only send erroneous messages. However, some may delete important files from the hard drive, and then the computer will stop functioning. Special antivirus programs are capable of detecting and removing known viruses.
Instructions
Step 1
Viruses spread by introducing themselves into the executable code of other programs or by replacing other programs. Thousands of computer viruses are known that spread through the Internet all over the world, causing virus outbreaks. Most often, viruses are transmitted via email or removable media. The virus itself cannot start: for example, to run a virus received by e-mail, you need to open an attachment. After activation, the virus injects its code into other programs in order to be able to take further actions. Viruses modify programs or destroy files on the computer.
Step 2
Email is one of the main distribution channels for viruses. Usually viruses in e-mails are disguised as harmless attachments: pictures, documents, music, links to websites. One of the most dangerous viruses sent by e-mail was the "ILOVEYOU" virus, which spread in 2000. After infecting one computer with it, it started sending emails to the entire user's address book. The virus renamed files and attempted to crack user passwords. Fortunately, thanks to the mail systems that warned about the spread of this virus, its spread was stopped.
Step 3
Install an antivirus program on your computer and do regular virus checks. To scan your computer for viruses, you need to run the anti-virus program and click the Start Scan button. Also in the antivirus program, you can schedule regular computer scans. For example, daily, weekly, etc.
