SUBJECT: ICT GRADE: 7 ( )
Name of the student: _____________________________ Date: _____________
Chapter 14- Computer Virus
A computer virus is a harmful program that can infect your computer, slow it down, delete
files, or steal information. It spreads when you open infected files or download harmful
software. To stay safe, use antivirus software and avoid opening suspicious emails or files.
Types of viruses:
1. File Infector Virus:
This type of virus attaches itself to executable files (like .exe or .com). When the
infected file is run, the virus activates and can spread to other files or systems.
2. Boot Sector Virus:
Infects the system’s boot area and activates when the computer starts. This virus
infects the master boot record (MBR) of a hard drive or a removable storage device.
It loads before the operating system, making it harder to detect and remove.
3. Executable File Virus:
Similar to file infector viruses, this type specifically targets executable files. It runs
when the executable file is launched, often corrupting or altering other system files.
Examples of viruses
1. Worm
A worm is a type of virus that spreads on its own through the internet or networks.
It is quite harmless and simply replicates itself. It doesn’t need to be attached to a
program or file. Worms can slow down networks and fill up storage.
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2. Trojan Horse
This virus hides inside a file or program that looks useful or safe. Once opened, it
can steal data, damage files, or let hackers into your system.
It can spread through the atttachment of email or by sending the copies of itself to
the people in address book of the user whose computer is infected.
3. Rootkit
A rootkit hides deep in your system and gives hackers secret control of your
computer from remote location. It’s hard to detect and often works with other
malware.
4. Sleeper Virus
This virus stays inactive for a while after entering your system. It “sleeps” until a
specific time or action wakes it up and activates the attack. This steals your personal
and financial information.
5. Alabama Virus
It is an old virus from the 1980s. It displayed a message like “Welcome to the
Dungeon” and could corrupt data. It was mostly spread on early personal
computers.
It is a computer virus hug infects .EXE files. The virus manipulates the file allocation
table and swaps file names so that files are slowly lost.
6. Logic Bomb
It is a hidden piece of code that triggers when certain conditions are met (e.g., a
specific date, opening a file). It can delete files or crash the system.
7. Christmas Virus (or Christmas Tree EXEC)
A virus that spreads via email as a small, executable file with a variety of names and
extensions. The worm propagates by emailing itself as an attachment to any
address. Infected email messages arriv with the subject “Merry Christmas” and
body “Happy Holidys!”. The attachment has the name “postcard” followed by an
executable extension.
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Sources of viruses
1. Infected Storage Devices
What it is: Viruses can hide in USB drives, CDs, or external hard drives.
Example: You plug in a friend’s USB to your computer, and it secretly installs a virus.
Result: The virus may copy itself to your files or steal data.
2. Email Attachments
What it is: Emails may have infected attachments or dangerous links. You cannot get an
email virus from a message that contains text. If you forward the attachment to other
people, their computers will also be affected.
Example: You get an email saying “You won a prize!” with a file attached. You open it, and a
virus installs.
Result: The virus might lock your files or send itself to your contacts.
3. Internet Downloads
What it is: Downloading files from unsafe or fake websites can bring viruses.
Example: You download a “free movie” from a random site, but it’s actually a virus.
Result: It might slow down your computer or track your activity.
4. Illegal Distribution of Software
What it is: Using a CD to install software copied from infected computer bring virus.
Example: You copy a software on a CD from your infected computer to distribute to
someone.
Result: The person who installs the software on his computer also gets infected with virus.
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Symptoms of computer virus
Here are some common symptoms of a computer virus in simple terms:
1. Slow Performance – Your computer takes longer to start or run programs.
2. Frequent Crashes – It keeps freezing or restarting on its own.
3. Pop-up Ads – Unwanted ads appear, even when you’re not browsing.
4. Programs Opening or Closing Automatically – Strange things happen without you doing
anything.
5. Missing or Corrupted Files – Files suddenly disappear or won’t open properly.
6. High Internet/Data Usage – Your internet slows down or uses too much data
unexpectedly.
7. Disabled Security Software – Antivirus or firewall turns off without your action.
8. Unusual Messages – Weird error messages or alerts pop up.
9. Unauthorized Access – Unknown users or activities happen on your system.
10. New or Unknown Programs – Apps or icons appear that you didn’t install.
Virus Prevention:
1. Avoid Suspicious Emails and Links
Don’t open emails, attachments, or links from unknown senders.
2. Download Only from Trusted Sources
Get software, games, or media from official or safe websites only.
3. Keep Software Updated
Always update your operating system, apps, and antivirus to fix security holes.
4. Anti – virus prevention
Anti -virus software is used to prevent, detect and remove malware and other computer
viruses.
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Install an antivirus program to safeguard your computer from virus attacks and update it
regularly. Install trusted antivirus software to detect and remove viruses before they cause
harm.
Examples of Anti-virus softwares:
1. Norton Antivirus
Developed and distributed by Symantec Corporation.
It is a well-known antivirus that protects against viruses, malware, and online threats.
It is easy to use, with features like safe browsing, password manager, and cloud backup.
2. McAfee
It is popular antivirus software that provides real-time protection and internet security.
It includes tools to block dangerous websites and keep personal info safe.
3. Kaspersky Antivirus
It is a strong virus protection with a simple design.
It scans for malware, spyware, and phishing threats. It is known for high detection rates.
4. Panda Antivirus
Cloud-based antivirus that’s lightweight and easy on your computer.
It offers basic protection plus features like USB scanning and a rescue kit.
5. AVG Antivirus
It is a free and paid antivirus with solid basic protection.
It blocks viruses, unsafe links, and email threats. Good for everyday users.
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