What is Malware? And its Types

Malware is software that infects systems without user consent to steal sensitive data (bank details, passwords, personal emails), disrupt operations, or alter core system behavior. It can exfiltrate confidential information, corrupt or delete files, and impair system availability or integrity. Examples include ransomware (encrypts files for ransom) and spyware (monitors activity); mitigate risks with up-to-date antivirus and caution when opening links or attachments. Malware commonly spreads through the following vectors:

Types of Malware

Here are the types of Malware

• Viruses - A Virus is a malicious executable code attached to another executable file. The virus spreads when an infected file is passed from system to system. Viruses can be harmless or they can modify or delete data. Opening a file can trigger a virus. Once a program virus is active, it will infect other programs on the computer.

• Worms - Worms replicate themselves on the system, attaching themselves to different files and looking for pathways between computers, such as computer network that shares common file storage areas. Worms usually slow down networks. A virus needs a host program to run but worms can run by themselves. After a worm affects a host, it is able to spread very quickly over the network.

• Trojan horse - A Trojan horse is malware that carries out malicious operations under the appearance of a desired operation such as playing an online game. A Trojan horse varies from a virus because the Trojan binds itself to non-executable files, such as image files, and audio files.

• Ransomware - Ransomware grasps a computer system or the data it contains until the victim makes a payment. Ransomware encrypts data in the computer with a key that is unknown to the user. The user has to pay a ransom (price) to the criminals to retrieve data. Once the amount is paid the victim can resume using his/her system.

• Adware - It displays unwanted ads and pop-ups on the computer. It comes along with software downloads and packages. It generates revenue for the software distributer by displaying ads.

• Spyware - Its purpose is to steal private information from a computer system for a third party. Spyware collects information and sends it to the hacker.

• Logic Bombs - A logic bomb is a malicious program that uses a trigger to activate the malicious code. The logic bomb remains non-functioning until that trigger event happens. Once triggered, a logic bomb implements a malicious code that causes harm to a computer. Cybersecurity specialists recently discovered logic bombs that attack and destroy the hardware components in a workstation or server including the cooling fans, hard drives, and power supplies. The logic bomb overdrives these devices until they overheat or fail.

• Rootkits - A rootkit modifies the OS to make a backdoor. Attackers then use the backdoor to access the computer distantly. Most rootkits take advantage of software vulnerabilities to modify system files.

• Backdoors - A backdoor bypasses the usual authentication used to access a system. The purpose of the backdoor is to grant cyber criminals future access to the system even if the organization fixes the original vulnerability used to attack the system.

• Keyloggers - Keylogger records everything the user types on his/her computer system to obtain passwords and other sensitive information and send them to the source of the keylogging program.

Signs Your Device Is Infected

Common indicators include poor system performance, unexpected browser redirects, fake infection warnings offering paid fixes, startup/shutdown problems, and persistent pop-up ads

• Performing poorly on the computer by execution.
• When your web browser directs you to a website you didn't intend to visit, this is known as a browser redirect.
• Warnings about infections are frequently accompanied by offers to buy a product to treat them.
• Having trouble starting or shutting down your computer.
• Persistent pop-up ads.

Why Do Cybercriminals Use Malware?

• Cybercriminals use malware, including all forms of malicious software including viruses, for various purposes.
• Using deception to induce a victim to provide personal information for identity theft
• Theft of customer credit card information or other financial information
• Taking over several computers and using them to launch denial-of-service attacks against other networks
• Using infected computers to mine for cryptocurrencies like bitcoin.

How To Protect From Malware?

Keep systems safe by updating OS/software, running reputable antivirus/antimalware, avoiding suspicious links/pop-ups, and installing only trusted apps.

• Update your operating system and software. Install updates as soon as they become available because cybercriminals search for vulnerabilities in out-of-date or outdated software.
• Never click on a popup's link. Simply click the "X" in the message's upper corner to close it and leave the page that generated it.
• Don't install too many apps on your devices. Install only the apps you believe you will regularly use and need.
• Be cautious when using the internet.
• Do not click on unidentified links. If a link seems suspicious, avoid clicking it whether it comes from an email, social networking site, or text message.
• Choose the websites you visit wisely. Use a safe search plug-in and try to stick to well-known and reputable websites to avoid any that might be malicious without your knowledge.
• Emails requesting personal information should be avoided. Do not click a link in an email that appears to be from your bank and asks you to do so in order to access your account or reset your password. Log in immediately at your online banking website.

How To Remove Malware?

Here are the steps to remove the malware

• Install Malwarebytes on the target device (Windows, macOS, Android, or iOS).
• Open the application and update its malware definitions if prompted.
• Start a scan (manual) to inspect the system — Malwarebytes scans running processes, registry entries, hard drives, and individual files.
• Review scan results when the scan completes; identified items will be listed with threat names and locations.
• Quarantine detected items to isolate suspicious files and prevent further harm.
• Remove or clean quarantined items after review to eliminate the malware from the system.
• Reboot if required to complete cleanup (follow tool prompts).
• Verify system health by re-scanning or checking for residual symptoms (performance, unexpected pop-ups).

Tools Used to Remove Malware

• Malwarebytes
• SUPERAntiSpyware
• Malicious Software Removal Tool (MSRT)
• Bitdefender Antivirus Free Edition
• Adaware Antivirus Free
• Avast Free Mac Security

Suggested Quiz

Edit Quiz

6 Questions

Which of the following is a type of malware that encrypts files and demands payment for decryption?

• A
  Spyware
• B
  Ransomware
• C
  Adware
• D
  Worm

Explanation:

What type of malware replicates itself and spreads through networks without needing a host program?

• A
  Virus
• B
  Worm
• C
  Trojan horse
• D
  Logic bomb

Explanation:

Which type of malware disguises itself as a legitimate application or file?

• A
  Virus
• B
  Trojan horse
• C
  Ransomware
• D
  Keylogger

Explanation:

What is a common sign that a device may be infected with malware?

• A
  Increased battery life
• B
  Unexpected browser redirects
• C
  Faster internet speed
• D
  Improved system updates

Explanation:

Which of the following is a method to protect against malware?

• A
  Ignoring software updates
• B
  Running reputable antivirus software
• C
  Clicking on unknown links
• D
  Disabling firewalls

Explanation:

What is the purpose of a keylogger?

• A
  To enhance system performance
• B
  To record user keystrokes
• C
  To monitor internet speed
• D
  To encrypt files

Explanation:

Quiz Completed Successfully

Your Score :   2/6

Accuracy :  0%

Login to View Explanation

1/6 1/6 < Previous Next >