As the use of computers increases in work spaces so too does the threat posed by malicious software.
A survey of government departments, semi-state bodies and leading Irish companies shows that more than half of their computer systems have been attacked by a virus in the last year. A virus can result in the faulty operation of a computer or even the complete destruction of computer programmes.
A virus is an illicit programme which can effectively infect a computer system.
The survey was carried out by Price Waterhouse and Priority Data Systems. Bob Semple, Price Waterhouse, says that the survey findings are very worrying as viruses can cause a lot of disruption and loss of data. Organisations need to spend more time assessing the risks of a computer virus attack and improve computer security.
Security is only as strong as the weakest link.
One of the main sources of viruses comes from computer discs from outside an organisation. These are often introduced by unsuspecting employees. Other sources of viruses include fraud and malicious damage.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 15 February 1995. The reporter is Lorraine Smith.
