Viruses and Malware

Abstract

The term computer virus was first used in 1984 and is now well known to the general public. Computers are increasingly pervasive in the workplace and in homes. Most users of the Internet, and more generally any network, have faced the malware risk at least once. However, it appears that in practice, users’ knowledge (in the broadest sense of the term) with respect to computer virology is still contains so flawed that the risk is increased instead of being reduced. The term virus itself is improperly used to designate a more general class of programs that have nothing to do with viruses: worms, Trojans, logic bombs, lures, etc. Viruses, in addition, cover a reality farmore complex. Many sub-categories exist, and many viral techniques relate to them, all involving different risks, which must be known for protection and an effective fight.