In the context of programming, what is a common outcome associated with having a virus?

A common outcome associated with having a virus in programming is unexpected behavior in applications. When a virus infiltrates a computer system, it typically disrupts normal operations, leading to erratic or unpredictable application performance. This can manifest in various ways, such as applications crashing, slow response times, or executing functions that are not part of the original software design. The code from the virus can alter program instructions or use system resources inappropriately, resulting in behaviors that do not align with intended operation. Understanding this outcome emphasizes the importance of maintaining robust security measures and the potential risks associated with malware in software environments.