how do computer viruses work? max miller 2005. what is a computer virus? similar to biological...

How do Computer

Viruses Work?

Max Miller

2005

What is a Computer Virus?

•similar to biological viruses.

• both parasitic.

•a virus can be seen and a computer virus is a program.

Virus Programs

Programs contain:

•how it destroys files etc.

•replication information.

•how it disperses.

Viruses

•are most basic viruses.

•only destroy and replicate.

•can easily be detected and destroyed.

e-Viruses•use e-mail to spread and infect.

• launch when attachment is opened.

• then sent to a person on your e-mail list.

• below is an infamous e-virus called the ILOVEYOU virus.

Worms

•exploit security holes.

•replicate in these holes.

•replicate faster than viruses.

Trojan Horses

•are files.

• when file is opened, virus is launched.

• it begins infecting.

Other Viruses•stealth viruses “hide” from anti-virus programs.

• parasitic viruses replicate by destroying data.

•polymorphic viruses change program to avoid detection.

Origins of Viruses

1. Creator is mentally destructive.

2. Creator wants to make a mess of things.

3. Bragging rights.

Virus Protection

•anti-virus systems must be bought or downloaded.

Firewalls

•stops viruses in the internet.

•is like a filter that stops all viruses etc.

Virus Limitations

Viruses can’t:

•infect the monitor

•infect computer chips

•infect compressed files

Source of Viruses

Where do Viruses Come From?

All About MeMy name is Max Miller and I’m 13 years old. I like The Simpsons, Calvin & Hobbes, and Final Fantasy . I hope to be a cartoonist when I grow up.

Bibliography‘Home Page. 25 Apr. 2005

<http://www.howstuffworks.com>

Home Page. 27 Apr. 2005 <http://www.faqs.org>

Home Page. 2 May 2005 <http://tml.hut.fi/…/Tik-110.501/1997/viruses.ht

ml>