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December 1, 2003
Cyber Attacks Target Computer Vulnerabilities
Computer security technologists are in a race to find ways to block ever-more complex computer worms and viruses that burrow into computers usually via e-mail and wreak havoc on network systems.

NewsHour Transcript: New technology, from "patches" to a tiered defense system, is helping in the battle against cyber attacks.

Combating Computer Worms and Viruses

Computer virus spreadingA virus is a small piece of software embedded in a larger, legitimate program or attached to a document. It spreads from computer to computer much like a biological virus spreads from person to person.

Famous Worms and Viruses:

Computer wormFrom Slammer to "I Love You," these high-profile viruses and worms targeted computer programs' holes and caused millions of dollars in damages.

Tips on Avoiding Computer Worms

Computer tipsA security firm gives some advice on how you can avoid having your machine infected by viruses and worms. Additional links offer specific information for home computer users and network administrators.

Main: The Science Reports
For Students and Teachers
Combating Computer Worms at School
Online Forum:
Larry Rogers, a senior member of the technical staff at CERT at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, and Joe Wells, chief antivirus scientist at Fortinet Inc. and founder of the WildList Organization International, answer your questions about protecting your computer from worms and viruses.
 
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