As defined by Malwarebytes Labs, a computer virus is “malware attached to another program (such as a document), which can replicate and spread after an initial execution on a target system where human interaction is required. Many viruses are harmful and can destroy data, slow down system resources, and log keystrokes.”
Most computer viruses target systems running Microsoft Windows. Macs, on the other hand, enjoy a reputation as virus-proof super machines. In reality, Macs are not inherently safer. There are more Windows users in the world than Mac users and cybercriminals simply choose to write viruses for the operating system (OS) with the largest amount of potential victims.
Whatever OS you choose, Windows or Mac, don’t worry too much, because viruses just aren’t a thing anymore. That may sound odd coming from a cybersecurity company but hear us out.
Cybercriminals aren’t creating new viruses, instead they are focusing their efforts on more sophisticated and lucrative threats. When people talk about “getting a virus” on their computer, they usually mean some form of malware—often a computer worm.
The terms “virus” and “malware” are often used interchangeably, but they’re not the same thing. While a computer virus is a type of malware, not all malware are computer viruses.
Read the full article – https://www.malwarebytes.com/computer-virus/