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25 years on, Cohen's creation continues to cause havoc

It is now 25 years since the first virus was created and the person behind its creation is now an internet security insider working with major security corporations, reports the Times.

However, despite his actions, which involved creating the future online security nightmare in a controlled environment as part of an experiment, Fred Cohen also created defence tools against the worms.

As a student at the then University of Southern California's School of Engineering in 1983, the American computer scientist created the virus by developing a parasitic application that could commandeer computer operations.

Over the years his creation has mutated and evolved into all shapes and forms and inspired cyber crooks ranging from thrill seekers to real fraudsters.

The only solace many internet users have now is protecting themselves with internet security software and adopting best practices while online.

Online security experts recommend regularly updating security software, having all the latest patches and employing the services of a fully functional firewall.

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