Java applets

Nevertheless, Java also allows developers to build applications which have full control over the system, like any standard program. And this is the place where Java viruses found their way out.

The first Java-based virus is known as Java.StrangeBrew. It was first discovered in September 1998 and infects java class files. But the virus works only if the file is executed as a native Java application, not as an applet. Though Java application is rare and the implementation of Java.StrangeBrew is primitive, its influence should not be overlooked. We expect more Java viruses to come when Java applications become prevalent.