7 Different Types of Computer Viruses and Spyware

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Computer viruses and spyware have become more and more sophisticated over the years. Even while using caution, your computer can still become infected, especially if it is running a Windows-based operating system.

However, by keeping your anti-virus software updated, avoiding dangerous websites, and being careful about opening email attachments, you are more likely to avoid infection. Here are some common computer viruses and spyware to watch out for.

Computer Viruses

A computer virus is a man-made program that causes unexpected, normally negative, events. What follows are three examples of computer viruses.

1. Exploit-ByteVerify

This computer virus is a trojan detection, meaning it does not self-replicate. This virus often comes under the guise of a "helpful" program, such as a free security program. It is distributed through email, web pages, IRC, and peer-to-peer networks. The program has no visible means of detection, though it sometimes changes the home page for Internet Explorer. By installing all the patches offered by Windows this computer virus can be avoided.

2. Exploit-Obscured Html

This is another trojan detection and is spread through web pages and emails. This computer virus is a generic term for a variety of infections that can cause a multitude of different attacks. An antivirus program should be able to detect and kill this computer virus.

3. Generic!atr

This is a general term for a configuration text file used by many worms. Normally, when a certain program is run by the user the worm automatically runs a malicious program that infects multiple other files on your computer, eventually spreading through your hard drive. It is spread through a variety of methods but most commonly through P2P and file-share programs. By downloading all available security updates you can stop this computer virus from infecting your computer.

Spyware

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Spyware is a term for any unwanted program that exploits infected computers for commercial gain. They can cause pop-ups to appear in your web browser, steal personal information (such as credit card numbers), monitor web activity for marketing purposes, or cause you to automatically surf to advertising sites. The following are some examples of common spyware that could infect your computer.

1. New.Net.Domain.Plugin

This spyware is very common and changes browser settings, displays pop-ups, and transmits personal information to another location. A spyware detection and removal program, often included in anti-virus software, will stop this spyware.

2. Trymedia

This spyware causes pop-ups and pop-unders to appear when browsing the web. A spyware detection and removal program will solve this problem.

3. Nuvens

This spyware is a family of trojans that pose as helpful programs to download. It can be hidden as an application for downloading pornography. The trojans install bad applications and autorun programs without user permission. It is mostly just a pest, but it can allow another user to hack into your system and steal personal information. Anti-virus and anti-spyware programs will take care of Nuvens.

4. Live PC Care

This spyware appears under the guise of a security program. It pop-ups on the web claiming that is has detected spyware or malware on your system and asks you to install it. It will then ask for financial information to pay for the security program, but it is not actually an antivirus program. Live PC Care is often bundled with other spyware.