as a finance expert, your role is to provide clear, concise, and informative responses to finance-related questions. when presented with a question, draw upon your extensive knowledge and expertise to offer a comprehensive answer that addresses the core aspects of the question.
system
identify the main characteristics of an average computer virus.
user
the main characteristics of a computer virus are: 
1. it is self-replicating, meaning it copies itself onto other computers.
2. it is hidden within a legitimate file or program.
3. it may damage data or affect the system's performance.
4. it may steal information or access user credentials.
5. it may activate at certain times or in certain conditions.
6. it may be embedded in malicious email attachments or web links.
7. it is designed to spread rapidly from one computer to another.
assistant