Commonly called " Trojans ," these programs hide in plain sight by masquerading as legitimate files or software. Once downloaded and installed, Trojans make changes to a computer and carry out malicious activities, without the knowledge or consent of the victim. Bugs—flaws in software code—are not a type of malware, they are errors in software code that popular vectors for attackers with malicious intent.
Bugs can, on and of themselves, have detrimental effects on your computer, such as freezing, crashing or reducing performance. While better security control on the developer end helps reduce the number of bugs, bugs are another reason why keeping current on software patches and system updates is crucial.
Malware threats often rely on common misconceptions to create soft targets. By understanding some of the most widely misunderstood points, simple shifts in behavior can remove you from the soft target list. One of the most common misconceptions about malware is the assumption that infection is obvious.
Users often assume they'll know if their computer has been compromised. Typically, however, the intent of malware is to perform their task s for as long as possible. So, malware doesn't leave a trail to follow, and your system displays no signs of infection. Even malware like ransomware only makes its presence known after it has encrypted the files, thus completing its first task, to be ransomed back to the user.
Another common misconception is that all reputable websites are safe. Compromising legitimate websites with infected code is one of the easiest ways to convince potential victims to download files or provide sensitive information. Many users believe their personal data—photos, documents and files—have no value for malware creators. But cyber criminals mine publicly available data, like that on social networks, to create custom targeted attacks on individuals or to gather intelligence for spear phishing emails popular for accessing the networks and assets of large, otherwise secure organizations.
So how does your computer become infected by computer viruses or malware? There are many common approaches, but the following are some of the most popular methods owing to their efficacy and simplicity:. Confidential data, such as passwords, are a key target of cyber criminals. In addition to using malware to capture passwords, cyber criminals also collect login details from hacked websites and devices, even physical means like peering over your shoulder in a crowded cafe.
That's why it's so important to use a unique and complex password for each online account. This means 15 character or more and including letters, numbers and special characters.
Because so many people re-use passwords , password tools ensure that one compromised account does not cascade through your entire digital ecosystem. Also, remember that many security verification questions are ineffective. For example, if the question is "What's your favorite food? While most malware leaves no telltale signs and leaves your computer operating normally, sometimes there can be indications that you might be infected.
Reduced performance tops the list. This includes slow-running processes , windows that take longer to load than usual and seemingly random programs running in the background. You may also notice that internet homepages have been changed in your browser, or that pop-up ads are occurring more frequently than usual. This information can include browsing history, passwords, client profiles and other sensitive data.
This loss of space can lead to a sluggish computer, which makes it difficult to carry on with business as usual. Certain types of malware can damage or delete files and programs on your computer. One type of malware known as ransomware holds the files on your computer hostage. Ransomware hackers threaten to delete all of your data unless you give them money. Worms are an especially disruptive type of malware for businesses. Once this malware infects a computer, it replicates itself and spreads throughout the entire network.
The websites will be malware-laced and will try to dupe the target into clicking on links that will download malware into their devices. To avoid getting your device infested with malware by visiting one of these websites, always search for the official domain by typing it into a search engine or by typing it manually into the address bar.
It bears repeating that a proper security solution will also protect you from most threats and will also block you from accessing known malicious websites. External storage devices are a popular form of storing and transferring files; however, they do carry a number of risks. Once an afflicted drive is plugged in and opened your device can get infested with a keylogger or ransomware. To mitigate the chances of contaminating your PC you should use a reputable and up-to-date endpoint security solution that will scan any external media plugged into your device and warn you if it contains anything suspicious.
While over the years peer-to-peer sharing and torrents have gained a reputation for being a place to illegally download software, games, and media, they have been used by developers as an easy way to disseminate their open-source software or musicians to spread their songs.
However, they are also infamous for being abused by black hats who inject the shared files with malicious code. The most popular categories of malware are Trojans, viruses, spyware, ransomware, adware, rootkits, worms, etc. Each of these malware types have varying capabilities. From spying on your online activities to slowing down or locking down your computer, malware can wreak havoc on your computer if you do not protect yourself against them.
Since more people are connected to the internet than ever before, hackers are tricking unwary users into downloading malware. Are you confused about how you get malware on your PC?
When you download an mp3, video file or any other software from suspicious sites, malware can be downloaded into your PC without your knowledge. Similarly, malware can get into your PC if you click on links from suspicious emails sent from unknown email addresses.
Hackers use advanced tools to design and spread malware, so it is critical for users to protect their PCs.
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