Why in the world would someone create a computer virus?

“Why would anyone create a computer virus?”……..a phrase we often hear.

New computer viruses are being written and unleashed daily– infecting computer systems around the globe.  Where do they come from?  Who creates these programs?  Why?  I have anti-virus software on my computer, so I should be protected, right?  If only it was that simple.

Technology is advancing at lightning speed and the art of computer programming has become increasingly sophisticated.  Some of the most dangerous computer hackers have brilliant minds and are highly educated individuals.  They seem to be one step ahead of cutting edge technology; creating ingenious computer programs, but unfortunately, some use their extraordinary skills to participate in illegal activities and cause destruction.   Virus writers can be anyone; from young kids to organized crime leaders, each with various motives.

Just for the fun of it

For some hackers, it’s about brain-power, control, and just for the fun of it – to prove that they can.  They want to push the limits and see how many people they can outsmart.  They get a thrill out of causing damage and enjoy the media attention.  The more publicity they receive, the more determined they become to create even greater havoc.

Monetary Gain

Money is a powerful motive, for just about anything.  Hackers create viruses to pose as legitimate programs.  Often times, they look like helpful free virus removal tools.  When these programs are executed, they will perform a system scan and inform you that viruses are present.  All you have to do is punch in your credit card number and the scan will finish and eradicate the issue, or so they claim.  Now, your personal information is in the wrong hands, and your pc is still corrupted.  Various methods of key-logging enable virus creators to collect each key-stoke typed into the computer. Stealing important data, such as passwords, bank account, and credit card numbers is usually done this way.

Revenge

Hacking into computers to overload and disable a network can be a means of revenge.  Disgruntled employees, activists, business competitors, and organized crime circuits seek to sabotage large corporations or particular organizations.   They accomplish this by infecting a vast number of computers with a virus.  All of the infected computers are programmed to attack a specific website on a certain day and time; completely bringing the network down.

Yes, it’s puzzling that a brain with so much knowledge can be used to create disasters instead of building innovation for the future.  Computer technology, just like anything else, can be used as a resource to enhance our world, or a weapon of mass destruction.   With motives like these, it is clear to see that these all too common virtual attacks will continue to be a cyber-battle between “good vs. evil” until the end of time.

To learn more about computer viruses, check out these great informative articles:

http://www.howstuffworks.com/virus.htm

http://www.webopedia.com/TERM/V/virus.html