| computer virus n. A computer program that is designed to replicate itself by copying itself into the other programs stored in a computer. It may be benign or have a negative effect, such as causing a program to operate incorrectly or corrupting a computer's memory. |
A program that enters a computer usually without the knowledge of the operator. Some viruses are mild and only cause messages to appear on the screen, but others are destructive and can wipe out the computer's memory or cause more severe damage.
Note: Computer viruses spread from machine to machine on disks or, more commonly, over the Internet.
Note: The creation of computer viruses can be part of cyberwarfare.
computer virus
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