Computer viruses refer to malicious programs that can copy themselves and damage computer systems by destroying data without the user's permission or knowledge. Some of the earliest detected viruses include the Creeper virus from the early 1970s. Common types of viruses include time bombs, logic bombs, worms, boot sector viruses, DOS viruses, and Trojan horses. To prevent virus infections, users should install and regularly update antivirus software, install security updates, avoid opening unknown emails, and back up important files.