1. A Computer Virus is a software program that is designed to copy itself over and over again and to attach itself to other programs. They don’t affect hardware, but they can corrupt and delete files and programs.

2. You can be infected by a virus from: Web pages Email attatchments Floppy disks Memory sticks CDs DVDs Peer-to-peer file sharing networks

3. You can get anti-virus software to detect and remove viruses. They recognise virus patterns and alert the user, giving the option to remove or quarantine the virus. Anti-virus programs have to be updated all the time because new and more damaging viruses are always being written.

4. Viruses can be prevented by taking sensible precautions including: Using anti-virus software to scan your system daily or weekly Scanning all incoming e-mails Not opening attachments from people that you don't know (or attachments which look suspicious) Unless you are using a reputable site, not clicking on web site offers which look too good to be true, for example 'download this amazing game for free' Use special filtering software to prevent automatic downloads of computer programs Not allowing people to load applications or use floppy disks/memory sticks on your system Not using software that has been copied Backing up your system regularly so you can recover your data with clean copies

5. Trojan software - This kind of pest is hidden in applications that appear useful and harmless (such as a computer game) in order to obtain confidential information such as passwords and financial information by logging your keystrokes, taking screen shots and allowing someone else to take control of your computer whilst you are online. Worms – This kind of pest spreads on its own through computer networks and soaks up bandwidth, slowing down your computer. Adware / Spyware – This kind of pest comes with pop-ups, sending more adverts to your browser as you click on them.

6. Under The Computer Misuse Act, passed in 1990, it is illegal to distribute a virus to others, and doing so can lead to receiving an unlimited fine and a prison sentence of up to five years.