ICT Class 7 - Internet Viruses Notes

Internet & Viruses

Welcome to the chapter on Internet & Viruses for Class 7. In this chapter, you will learn about the internet, how it works, what computer viruses are, how they spread, and how to protect your devices from them. By the end of this chapter, you will understand the importance of internet safety and how to stay secure online.

What is the Internet?

The internet is a global network that connects millions of computers and devices around the world. It allows people to share information, communicate, and access resources from anywhere at any time.

• You can use the internet to browse websites, send emails, watch videos, and play games.
• The internet is made up of many networks linked together.
• It uses special rules called protocols to send and receive data.

What are Computer Viruses?

A computer virus is a type of malicious software (malware) that can harm your computer or steal your information. Viruses can spread from one computer to another and can cause many problems.

• Viruses can delete files, slow down your computer, or steal your data.
• They often spread through email attachments, downloads, or infected websites.
• Some viruses can even take control of your computer without you knowing.

How Do Viruses Spread?

• Opening infected email attachments.
• Downloading files or software from untrusted websites.
• Using infected USB drives or other storage devices.
• Clicking on suspicious links or pop-up ads.

How to Protect Your Computer from Viruses

• Install and update antivirus software regularly.
• Do not open emails or attachments from unknown senders.
• Download software only from trusted sources.
• Keep your operating system and apps updated.
• Do not click on suspicious links or ads.
• Use strong passwords and change them regularly.

Internet Safety Tips

• Never share your passwords with anyone.
• Be careful about what you post online.
• Do not share personal information with strangers.
• Always log out from public computers.
• Ask an adult if you are unsure about something online.

Summary

• The internet connects people and computers all over the world.
• Viruses are harmful programs that can damage your computer or steal information.
• Be careful when downloading files or clicking links.
• Use antivirus software and follow safety tips to protect yourself online.

Practice Questions

1. What is a computer virus?
2. List two ways viruses can spread.
3. How can you protect your computer from viruses?
4. Why should you not share your password with others?
5. What should you do if you receive an email from an unknown sender?

Did You Know?

• The first computer virus was created in the 1970s as an experiment.
• Some viruses can spread to thousands of computers in just a few hours!

Glossary

• Internet: A global network connecting millions of computers.
• Virus: A harmful program that can damage computers or steal data.
• Antivirus: Software that protects your computer from viruses.
• Malware: Malicious software designed to harm computers.

Answers to Practice Questions

1. A computer virus is a harmful program that can damage your computer or steal your information.
2. Viruses can spread through infected email attachments and downloads from untrusted websites.
3. Install antivirus software, avoid suspicious links, and download only from trusted sources.
4. Because someone could misuse your account or steal your information.
5. Do not open the email or its attachments and delete it immediately.

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Remember, always be careful online and protect your computer from viruses!