Malware encompasses all types of malicious software, including viruses, and cybercriminals use it for many reasons, such as: Tricking a victim into providing personal data for identity theft Stealing consumer credit card data or other financial data Assuming control of multiple computers to launch denial-of-service attacks against other networks Infecting computers and using them to mine bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies
Since its birth more than 30 years ago, malware has found several methods of attack. They include email attachments, malicious advertisements on popular sites (malvertising), fake software installations, infected USB drives, infected apps, phishing emails and even text messages.
Viruses A virus usually comes as an attachment in an email that holds a virus payload, or the part of the malware that performs the malicious action. Once the victim opens the file, the device is infected.
Ransomware One of the most profitable, and therefore one of the most popular, types of malware amongst cybercriminals is ransomware. This malware installs itself onto a victim’s machine, encrypts their files, and then turns around and demands a ransom (usually in Bitcoin) to return that data to the user.
Scareware Cybercriminals scare us into thinking that our computers or smartphones have become infected to convince victims to purchase a fake application. In a typical scareware scam, you might see an alarming message while browsing the Web that says “Warning: Your computer is infected!” or “You have a virus!” Cybercriminals use these programs and unethical advertising practices to frighten users into purchasing rogue applications.
Worms Worms have the ability to copy themselves from machine to machine, usually by exploiting some sort of security weakness in a software or operating system and don’t require user interaction to function.
Spyware Spyware is a program installed on your computer, usually without your explicit knowledge, that captures and transmits personal information or Internet browsing habits and details to its user. Spyware enables its users to monitor all forms of communications on the targeted device. Spyware is often used by law enforcement, government agencies and information security organizations to test and monitor communications in a sensitive environment or in an investigation. But spyware is also available to consumers, allowing purchasers to spy on their spouse, children and employees.
Trojans Trojans masquerade as harmless applications, tricking users into downloading and using them. Once up and running, they then can steal personal data, crash a device, spy on activities or even launch an attack.
Adware Adware programs push unwanted advertisements at users and typically display blinking advertisements or pop-up windows when you perform a certain action. Adware programs are often installed in exchange for another service, such as the right to use a program without paying for it.
Fileless malware Fileless malware is a type of malicious software that uses legitimate programs to infect a computer. Fileless malware registry attacks leave no malware files to scan and no malicious processes to detect. It does not rely on files and leaves no footprint, making it challenging to detect and remove.
The most common signs that your computer has been compromised by malware are:
The more of these common symptoms you see, the higher the likelihood your computer has a malware infection. Browser redirects and large numbers of pop-up warnings claiming you have a virus are the strongest indicators that your computer has been compromised.
Even though there are a lot of types of malware out there, the good news is, there are just as many ways to protect yourself from malware. Check out these top tips:
Protect your devices
Be careful online
Pay attention to downloads and other software purchases
Perform regular checks
With these tips and some reliable security software, you’ll be well on your way to protecting your data and devices from all kinds of malware.
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