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1 ANALYSIS OF COMPUTER VIRUSES Introduction The term “computer virus” is quite widespread in the world today. Nearly every computer user worldwide has encountered a computer virus. According to Trust and Estates Magazine, “In the world of technology, viruses are computer codes that changes files or applications on a computer without the knowledge or consent of the computer user.” (Trusts and Estates, 12) Viruses are designed for and can operate on all computer systems be it DOS, Windows, or Macintosh. They can be designed to remain unseen on a computer system, then become active on a designated date, or when a certain action is performed. Unexplained phenomenon such as a message flashing across the computer screen can be caused by a virus. In an extreme case, a computer virus can render your hard drive inoperable. Often, when some computer files come up missing, or a computer locks up, a virus is to blame for the problem. Unknowingly, e-mail addresses can be affected and even used for reproduction by viruses. (Trusts and Estates, 12-13) The common term “computer virus” is actually a generic term used to describe all computer infections. A true