for blackboard discussion

1. The Effects of Malware on Computers ANONYMOUS English 151 WC April 26th 2011

2. Subtopic #1 – “Introduction of Malware” Have you ever had this happen to you? A sudden decrease in your operating system with no explanation? Pop ups and ads even though you don’t have any web browser open? Unauthorized programs are being installed onto your computer? You notice that your computer is using more of it’s resources than usual? If so – you might be a victim of malware!

3. Subtopic #1 – “Introduction of Malware” So what is malware, anyway? Software designed to cause harm or gain unauthorized access to one’s computer. Also known as: Viruses Spyware Bloatware Botnets Rootkits Scareware

4. Subtopic #1 – “Introduction of Malware” History of Malware 1970 - 1990 History of Malware 1990-present day 1971 – “Creeper Virus” is introduced. 1974 – The “Rabbit” Virus. 1981 – “Elk Cloner” the first major virus for the Apple II personal computer. 1987 – The “Vienna Virus” is the first virus that actually destroys data. 1990 – “Chameleon” becomes the first virus that can purposely hide itself from it’s victim. 1998 – “HLLP.DeTroi” becomes the first virus to relay compromised passwords to the creators. 2001 – “E-mail and Websites” become the number one “honey pot” for malware. 2003 – “Slammer” infects the actual memory of computer systems to decrease the performance.

5. Subtopic #2 – “Effects of Malware on Computers in the Present Day” “As computers become more advanced in what they are capable of, the effects of malware is always changing to fit the agenda of its creator.”

6. Subtopic #2 – “Effects of Malware on Computers in the Present Day” Types of Malware: Insert info here. Insert info here. Insert info here. Insert info here. Insert info here.

7. Subtopic #3 – “The Victims of Malware” What are users doing to prevent malware from gaining unauthorized access to their computers? What can you do?

8. Subtopic #3 – “Future of Malware” What is the current growing concern for the effects of malware? What might be in store for the future, and what can we do to protect ourselves?

9. Subtopic #3 – “Conclusion” What do I think?