Transcript viruses
Computer Security Who let the virus out? A Computer Virus A program which attaches itself to, overwrites or otherwise replaces another program in order to reproduce itself without the knowledge of the PC user. Researchers have identified more than 18,000 virus strains, with 200 new strains appearing each month. At any given time, about 250 virus strains are in circulation. How does it spread? Spyware Programs that have the ability to scan systems or monitor activity and relay information to other computers or locations in cyber-space. Spyware frequently attempts to remain unnoticed, either by actively hiding or by simply not making its presence on a system known to the user. Trojan Horse A program intended to perform some covert and usually malicious act which the victim did not expect or want. Usually does not reproduce. Worm A program which spreads (usually) over network connections. Unlike a virus, it does not attach itself to a host program, but exists as independent entity. Worms can spread very quickly and can cripple email servers across the globe in less than 24 hours. Adware Programs that deliver advertising content to the user through their own window, or another program's interface. In some cases, these programs may gather information from the user's computer, including information related to Internet browser usage or other computing habits. Hackers Not quite like the movies! Hacker (or cracker) refers to people who break into computer systems Webjackers hijack Web pages and redirect users to other sites Denial of Service (DOS) attacks bombard servers and Web sites with traffic that shuts down networks Breaking into other computer systems is called electronic trespassing Where does Spy/Ad-ware come from? Downloaded from Web sites (typically in shareware or freeware), email messages, and instant messengers. Also installs when you accept the “End User License Agreement” for a piece of software. 7 Keys to Preventing Virus Infection 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Use Anti-Virus Software Update your virus definition file often Be very careful around email attachments Scan your computer/disks regularly Perform regular backups Run Operating System updates as required Use spyware detection and removal software AntiVirus Software Antivirus programs are designed to search for viruses, notify users when they’re found, and remove them from infected disks or files – Continually monitor system activity, watching for and reporting suspicious virus-like actions – Programs need to be frequently revised to combat new viruses as they appear – Most can automatically download new virus-fighting code from the Web as new virus strains appear • It can take several days to develop and distribute patches for new viruses McAfee / Norton - AntiVirus Firewall A barrier to keep destructive forces away from your computer. Letting the virus out … The year was 2001 The ILOVEYOU virus was unleashed Norton AntiVirus – May 10, 2000 Sources http://www.onenw.org/bin/page.cfm?pageid=14 http://www.uoguelph.ca/~jizhu/CIS1000DE/lectur es.shtml http://securityresponse.symantec.com/avcenter/ent erprise/security_risks/ http://www.symantec.com/avcenter/glossary/index .html http://www.howstuffworks.com/firewall.htm