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Unit 13: Understanding the Need of Security Measures

13.2 Threats to Users Notes

13.2.1 Viruses: One of the Most Common Computer Threats

A computer virus is a small program that can replicate itself to infect computers. They were a
problem even in the beginning phases of the internet. The first known virus was the Creeper
virus, which spread via ARPANET, a progenitor of the internet, in the early 1970s. Today, there
are literally thousands of viruses. Not all of them are particularly troublesome, but some of them
can cause significant damage. Computer viruses are considered as one of the most well known
computer security threat. This is a program which is written to alter the way a computer operates.
And it is obviously without the permission or knowledge of the PC user. A virus replicates and
executes itself and damages the files and folders of the computer.
There are several ways to contract these computer threats. They are commonly found in email
attachments and downloads from malicious web sites.
13.2.2 Trojans: The Sneaky Computer Threats

If you use an operating system that was released within the past couple years, then you might
occasionally see warning messages about Trojans when you download files. Trojans are small
viruses that hide within other programs. They can essentially exist anywhere. Funny pictures,
illegal downloads, and pirated software are some of the most common sources.
13.2.3 Worms: The Self-replicating Computer Threats

Worms are similar to viruses in that they are small, malicious programs. The big difference,
though, is that worms pose a threat even when computer users don’t download any files. These
programs use the internet to search for vulnerable computers. Once they locate them, they move
in. The computer users probably won’t even recognize that anything has happened until he or
she begins to experience computer problems.
13.2.4 Spyware: Annoying Threats to your Computer

Spyware is another serious computer security threat. Spyware might seem like viruses, but they
don’t replicate themselves. This technicality will mean little, though, to those who unintentionally
download spyware to their computers. This common threat is usually contracted through peer-to-
peer file sharing. If you download music, movies, or software illegally, then you have an increased
risk of installing spyware. Once installed, these programs start monitoring your online activities.
They also have potential to install programs without the consent of the user and capture personal
information. To combat spyware threats and stay safe online, it is suggested to consult a spyware
removal service provider.

13.2.5 Problems Caused by Common Computer Threats
These computer threats can cause lots of problems. Viruses, worms, and spyware are often
designed to gather information. This means that criminals can get private information such as
bank account numbers, passwords, and credit card numbers. This makes it much easier for them
to commit fraud and identity theft: two of the scariest problems that modern internet users face.

Once criminals have this info, they can take money from your bank accounts, sign up for credit
cards in your name, or even purchase high ticket items from online retailers.

Other viruses take over small parts of your computer. This allows people to use your computer to
send spam emails or participate in guerilla techniques that bombard web sites with requests until

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