Different types of computer infections and a history of some of the worst culprits.

We have all heard about computer viruses. They are aptly named. Like biological viruses they have the capability of spreading without difficulty and it can be very nearly impossible to stem that spread. A virus attacks the files on your computer and multiplies.

However, there are several variations on the generic term – which in basic terms means a bug that has been devised to compromise your computer system – simply out of a sense of devilment or, as is becoming more and more frequent, for more nefarious reasons.

This can mean the difference between someone taking some rather peculiar remote pleasure out of slowing down or corrupting your computer or even completely disabling its operation, to someone being able, through the introduction of a virus, to log your very actions on your own computer – sometimes from a completely different country or even continent! By doing so they can obtain details of your identity and your personal financial information and wreak havoc on your personal and financial life.

But there are other threats that can be just as dangerous, if not more so, than viruses. So, what are these different kinds of malevolent interferences with e safe operation of your internet life?

The worm, which is, like the virus, aptly named, can decimate the operation of your entire system, frequently gaining entry because of your subscription to social networking sites without taking the necessary precautions.