Macro is a programming language used to automate complex, repetitive processes. Macro viruses attach themselves to application documents and spreadsheets which cater to macro programming and use it to execute and multiply themselves. The most popular desktop application Microsoft Office also uses macro programming. So, it is quite easy for macro viruses to propagate through such applications. A macro virus in addition to the current document also infects the template which the program uses to open or close a file. This in turn corrupts all the documents catering to that particular application. Hence, a bigger menace. Usually Macro viruses are received as attachments in emails. Whenever we download these attachments, the macros unfurl and install on our computers. Examples of Macro Virus are The Concept, and Melissa.
Filed Under: What Is