Virus / Malware / Spyware C2R Portal
These infections are now attacking "Smart Phones" at a rapid pace - they are not limited to desktop and laptop pc's anymore!
As defined by Wikipedia.
Virus: A computer program that can copy itself and infect a host computer. The code (virus) can spread from one computer to another anonymously.
Malware: Short for "Malicious Software" that infiltrates a computer system. Malware includes computer viruses, worms, trojan horses spyware or any form "unwanted" software or code that finds is way onto a computer without the owner's informed consent.
Spyware: A type of malware when installed on a computer collects small bits of information about a user without the user's consent or knowledge. Various pieces of information can be collected including personally identifiable information leading to identity theft.
Malware attack: The proliferation of nasty online programs called "malware" accelerated during the previous quarter, said computer security firm McAfee Inc. — which said it found 10 million new bits of malware during the first half of 2010. "This makes the first six months of 2010 the most active half-year ever for total malware production," the company said. Among the major threats were "AutoRun" attacks, which spread through portable storage devices and USB drives." - Los Angeles Times August 16, 2010, Stuart Pfeifer
Prevention
Look for a reputable Antivirus program. Microsoft now offers theirs for free called: Microsoft Security Essentials
Have a look here to see how various Antivirus programs are stacking up: av-test.org
Symantec produces these educational videos for the "non geek". More can be found here.