Computer viruses

Some computer programs are called VIRUSES because their behavior mimics the biological viruses that infect humans and other animals. Computer viruses can 'infect' another program by copying themselves directly into the program. Viruses often affect the behavior of the infected computer: by interfering with programs, affecting the screen display, deleting files, or displaying annoying messages. Computer viruses may be passed from one program/computer to another via exchanged floppy diskettes, modem transmissions from electronic bulletin boards, or network connections.

Some computer viruses are harmless; but others can cause massive destruction by crippling computer operations or deleting all the data on hard disks. Do NOT take computer viruses lightly: if one is suspected, turn off the computer, and call an expert immediately.