ANSWERS: 1
  • It is possible to write viruses in Java, as the first Java virus "Strange Brew" demonstrated in 1998. However, Java viruses apparently can't be passed in Java applets through properly secured modern browsers. (This is a good reason to keep your browser updated.) Strange Brew is only capable of spreading when an infected Java application file is launched. Very few companies or users employ Java applications, making the risk of such an infection very small. The BeanHive virus was discovered on Jan 8, 1999 and is the second known Java virus ever developed. While this virus attempts to use a number of interesting new technologies to spread itself, it functions incorrectly under many circumstances and is not likely to constitute a threat to users. While Java viruses can't spread through applets, there are malicious Java applets that do things like cause your web browser to stop responding or hijack your home page. There are also Java components to many trojans. Your best defense against these is to ensure you keep up with Critial Security Updates for your Operating System.

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