Page 83 - Trackpad v5 class 5
P. 83
We have studied in previous classes that a computer functions by executing a set of
instructions called a program. But some programs are created by programmers to stop
a computer from functioning properly. Such software that is harmful to the computer is
called malicious software. Let us now learn about the malware and its types and also
learn to protect a computer from these threats.
MALWARE
Malware is a type of malicious program designed to damage or carryout other unwanted
actions on a computer system. In Spanish, 'mal' is a prefix meaning 'bad,' making the term
'badware,' which is a good way to remember it.
There are different types of malware programs that can affect the computer.
VIRUS
Virus stands for Vital Information Resources Under Seize. It is the kind of malware that
is created deliberately to damage critical information and data. It interferes with the
normal operation of a computer and attaches itself to any type of file. Due to this, when
we copy a file which has a virus, our computer gets infected. Before we know about it,
our computer starts malfunctioning, and our files and operating systems tend to get
damaged.
PURE
In 1986, the first virus 'Brain' was made by two brothers, Basit and Amjad Farooq
Alvi. FACT
SYMPTOMS OF VIRUS
If a computer works differently from usual, it might have been infected by a virus. Some of
the symptoms of your computer having a virus are:
The computer runs slower than usual and takes more time to load programs.
The computer freezes frequently and stops responding.
Memory of the computer becomes lesser than expected and new files keep appearing
with strange names.
Warning messages like “Your PC is stoned” appears or unusual images are automatically
displayed on the screen.
The operating system faces trouble in starting up or shuts down unexpectedly.
Sometimes music and unusual sounds play automatically.
Computer Malware 81

