People who create computer viruses...

I just don't understand what compels someone to create a virus. What kind of sick fucker sits around and creates things to purposely screw up unknown thousands of computers? Why do they do this? What is the point?

Anybody got any ideas about what might make someone do this?

What do you think should be done to people who create them?

Anger at the 'establishment'? Pride in knowing what kind of havoc you can wreak?

We pulled a lot of small-time stunts in my dorms while studying engineering... I could see how some people could take these to the extreme and see how much they could affect and get away with.

I'd still rather pull pranks on my friends, personally :D

I'm not sure what should be done. I think in a way, it will force companies to keep improving their products and their security, but... don't think that justifies there being no punishment, if ever caught.

So they have all this rage at society because of it...

to be able to cause either massive damage or hysteria at the thought of damage. There are probably more people who create virus hoaxes than who create the malicious programs.

As to what should be done with them? I don't think non-violent crimes should be punished with prison time; it costs too much money and does not contribute anything positive to society. People who write viruses should, IMHO, have all computer access taken away indefinitely, and they should serve lengthy periods of community service doing something positive. I'd have them picking up trash next to roadways, working as aides in emergency rooms or hospices, tutoring in public schools, etc., for a minimum of 5 years.

Senseless destruction.

...and let the iraqis go home and go about their business. Torture is too good for some of these virus writers....