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E-mail Virus
An e-mail virus is a type of computer virus that is transmitted from one computer to another
through e-mail messages. Some e-mail viruses can also be transmitted as infected attachments
along with the e-mail message. It gets active in the memory when a user opens an infected e-mail
or attachment. It sounds very simple, but an e-mail virus can erase files, destroy information, and
cause computer crashes.
i + HOW DOES A COMPUTER GET INFECTED WITH A VIRUS?
Computer viruses-spread in several ways. Some of them are:
• Using virus-infected CDs/Pen Drives.
• Opening an infected e-mail attachment.
• Downloading an infected program from the Internet, Pen
Drives, CDs or DVDs.
Sources of virus
• Running an infected program (which can be a game, screen
saver, etc.).
• Through local computer networks.
Info Byte
The first widespread computer virus was BRAIN, created in 1986.
i + HOW DO YOU KNOW YOUR PC HAS A VIRUS?
When virus infects human beings, it damages the body which is evident through certain
symptoms. In the similar manner, there are certain symptoms that hint that a computer has been
infected by malware & virus, like:
• Slowdown: Fall in speed of processing of computer.
• Pop-ups: Appearance of unexpected pop-ups on the system.
• Crash: Frequent crashing of system or BSOD (Blue Screen of Death).
• Running out of Storage Space: Occupying huge space of storage.
• Loss of File: Abrupt deletion of files of a computer system.
• Unusual Activity of Messages or Programs: Automatic opening or closing of a program,
abrupt restarting of a computer and opening of strange or unknown windows during the
process of booting.
• Unusual Network Activity: Unusual network activity such as excessive transfer of data even
when all the applications are closed.
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Computer Virus

