Types of Computer Viruses- There are many types of computer viruses, and each computer virus has its own characteristics and behavior. Now let’s learn about some common types of computer viruses.
10 Types of Computer Viruses
1. File Infector Viruses
These viruses infect by attaching executable files like .exe or .com files to a host file. When an infected file is executed, the virus activates and spreads to other files on the system.
2. Macro Viruses
These viruses affect files that contain macros, such as Microsoft Word or Excel documents. When an infected file is opened, the virus executes its malicious code, which may lead to data corruption or further spread of the virus.
3. Boot Sector Viruses
These viruses affect the boot sector of storage devices such as hard drives or floppy disks. When an infected device is accessed during the boot process, the virus is loaded into memory and may harm other devices or files.
4. Polymorphic viruses
Polymorphic viruses have the ability to change their code structure or signature every time they infect a new file. This makes them difficult to detect using traditional antivirus software.
5. Worms: Worms are independent programs that replicate and spread across networks without the need for a host file. These types of viruses exploit security vulnerabilities to spread quickly. It can also consume network resources, leading to performance issues.
6. Trojan Horse: Trojan horses look like legitimate software but contain malicious code. They often trick users into executing them, granting unauthorized access to attackers, or causing other malicious actions.
7. Ransomware: Ransomware encrypts the victim’s files and demands a ransom in exchange for the decryption key. It can spread through malicious email attachments, infected websites or compromised software.
8. Spyware: Spyware silently collects information about user activities and sends it to a remote attacker. It can track keystrokes, monitor browsing habits or capture sensitive information.
9. Adware: Adware displays unwanted advertisements on the user’s computer. It is often bundled with free software and may collect browsing habits to serve targeted ads.
10. Botnets: Botnets are networks of infected computers controlled remotely by a central attacker. They can be used for various malicious purposes such as launching coordinated cyber attacks or sending spam emails.
Note: It is important to note that the details here are not exhaustive and that new types of viruses and malware are constantly being developed. Maintaining up-to-date antivirus software, regularly updating operating systems and applications, and practicing safe browsing habits can help protect against these.