Computer Viruses
Viruses pose a major threat to ICT systems. A virus is a program that replicates (i.e.. Copies) itself automatically and can cause harm by copying files corrupting files or corrupting files. Once a computer or media has a virus copied onto it. It is said to be infected. Most viruses are designed to do something apart from copying themselves. For example, they can:
- display annoying messages on the screen
- delete programs or data
- Use up resources, making your computer run more slowly
- Spy on your online use - for example, they can collect usernames and passwords, and card numbers used to make online purchases.