A direct action virus is a type of malware that rapidly infects a computer by targeting specific files, then often deletes itself to avoid detection.
Understanding Direct Action Viruses
Direct action viruses, also known as non-resident viruses, are a type of computer virus that differs from resident viruses in their method of operation. They don't stay in the computer's memory. Instead, they execute when the infected file is run, quickly infect other files, and then terminate. Here's a more detailed breakdown:
How Direct Action Viruses Work
- Activation: The virus becomes active when the infected file is executed (e.g., running an infected
.exefile). - Infection: According to provided information, the direct action virus accesses a computer's main memory and infects all programs, files, and folders located in the autoexec.bat path.
- Execution: The virus performs its programmed actions. These actions might include:
- Data corruption
- File deletion
- System slowdown
- Termination: The virus deletes itself to evade detection.
Impact of Direct Action Viruses
- System Performance: They typically alter system performance.
- Data Destruction: They are capable of destroying all data on the computer's hard disk.
- USB Device Infection: They can infect any USB device attached to the computer.
Characteristics of Direct Action Viruses
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Residency | Non-resident; does not stay active in memory |
| Activation Trigger | Execution of an infected file |
| Infection Target | Programs, files, and folders specified in the autoexec.bat path. |
| Stealth | Attempts to conceal itself by deleting itself after execution |
| Damage Potential | Can range from system slowdowns to complete data loss |
Example
Imagine you download a program called "game.exe" that's infected with a direct action virus. When you run "game.exe," the virus activates, infects other .exe files on your system (especially those listed in the autoexec.bat), performs some damaging action (like deleting files), and then erases its own code. The next time you run one of the newly infected .exe files, the process repeats.
