Computer viruses are malicious software programs that infect and damage computer systems. Over the years, several major computer viruses have caused widespread damage and garnered significant attention in the cybersecurity community.

 

Some of the major computer viruses include:

 

1. ILOVEYOU: This virus spread through email in 2000 and caused significant damage. It was a VBS (Visual Basic Script) worm that overwrote files and spread rapidly through email attachments with the subject line "ILOVEYOU."

2. Melissa: Melissa was a macro virus that spread through infected Microsoft Word documents. It caused email systems to become overloaded in 1999 due to its rapid spread.

3. Code Red: The Code Red worm, which emerged in 2001, targeted Microsoft IIS (Internet Information Services) servers. It could deface websites and slow down the Internet.

4. Slammer (SQL Slammer): Slammer was a fast-spreading worm that exploited a vulnerability in Microsoft SQL Server in 2003. It caused widespread network congestion and outages.

5. Blaster (MSBlast or MSBlaster): Blaster targeted a vulnerability in Microsoft Windows in 2003. It infected computers, causing them to reboot repeatedly and launch distributed denial-of-service attacks.

6. Conficker: First detected in 2008, Conficker was a notorious worm that infected millions of computers worldwide. It had the ability to download additional malware and was challenging to eradicate.

7. Stuxnet: Stuxnet is a sophisticated worm discovered in 2010 that targeted supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems, particularly those used in Iran's nuclear program. It's believed to have been developed for cyber-espionage and cyber-sabotage.

8. WannaCry: WannaCry was a ransomware attack that occurred in 2017. It exploited a vulnerability in Windows and encrypted files on infected computers, demanding a ransom in Bitcoin for decryption.

9. NotPetya (Petya, ExPetr): NotPetya, which emerged in 2017, was a ransomware attack that spread globally, primarily targeting organizations in Ukraine. It encrypted files and demanded a ransom, but its true purpose may have been data destruction rather than financial gain.

10. Bad Rabbit: This ransomware attack occurred in 2017 and targeted Eastern European countries. It demanded a ransom for file decryption, and it spread through compromised websites.

 

These viruses are just a few examples of major computer viruses that have caused significant damage and disruption. Cybersecurity measures, such as regular software updates, strong antivirus software, and user education, are essential for preventing virus infections and mitigating their impact.

 

Thank you.