How Does A Virused File Get Executed?

[Ender]

How does a virused file let loose it's virus on your system? Do you have to open it yourself? Or does it just happen? For example, if I downloaded a virused file into my shared folder. I realize it's a virus by using norton, and then move it to the recycle bin and delete it. Will I be safe and not have to worry about infection?

[toddiscool]

Run a system scan if you are worried but you should be fine. Norton usually catches them while they are still .dat files, which gives them little chance of executing.

[Mik3ll]

as long as you didnt run the program that had the virus in it, your safe.