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 A
computer virus is a computer program that can copy itself and infect a
computer without permission or knowledge of the user. The original may
modify the copies or the copies may modify themselves and spread from
one computer to another when its host is taken to the uninfected
computer, for instance by a user sending it over a network or carrying
it on a removable medium such as a floppy disk, CD, USB drive, or by the
Internet. Additionally, viruses can spread to other computers by
infecting files on a network file system or a file system that is
accessed by another computer.
Spyware and other deceptive software
conduct certain activities on your computer without notifying you and
getting your permission first. These activities may include displaying
pop-up advertisements, changing Web browser settings, and collecting
personal information. Some of these programs are annoying but harmless
while others may slow your computer's performance or violate your
privacy.
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