Is malware all that bad? What types of malware are actually harmful, and what can they do you or your computer?
In a world where cyberattacks and malware top the chart of being the most common threats on the internet, these happen to be the most common questions that circulate ever tech newbie’s mind.
So, through this article, let’s learn all about malware, how it can affect your device, and what can be done to prevent a malware attack.
What is Malware?
As the name suggests, malicious software or malware is any software that damages or disables your computer.
Malware comes in different types, and the ways they work depend on the files they attack as well. The most common types of malware found include the following:
- Virus – Similar to how they work in biology, viruses stick to a clean file and then spread uncontrollably to other clean data infecting them. Viruses are capable of self-replicating, and their infection damages the core functionality of a system, thereby deleting and corrupting data. Viruses often come as executable files (.exe).
- Worms – Worms attack the entire network of devices connected either locally or across the internet. Like viruses, they can self-replicate. They spread by sending automatic messages to people on your contact list.
- Trojans – Trojans aren’t capable of self-replicating. It makes its appearance either by disguising as or hiding in legitimate software. It discreetly works by opening a backdoor in your security through which other malware can enter.
- Spyware – Spyware, as the name suggests, sits spying on you but doesn’t allow hackers to access your PC. It possesses the ability to steal your financial information such as credit card number, bank account information, and everything else you have input into your computer.
- Adware – Though adware is akin to Spyware, it isn’t as malicious. Adware sits on your PC, trying to display relevant ads to you. They pose a threat when the ads become too many, thus slowing down your PC. Sometimes, they also show adult content to your children, which can be very disturbing.
Usually developed by a group of hackers to make money, malware also tests security and can be a tool of protest or a weapon of war. No matter how malware is created, when they end up in your PC, it is always bad news. But fortunately, they can be prevented.
Can it Happen to You?
Cybercriminals target victims based on the potential payout, as well as the chances of successfully delivering their malware. When looking at trends over the years, there have been some fluctuations in the types of malware used and the most common victims.
As per Malwarebytes Labs State of Malware Report 2019, there was a 79 percent hike in the number of malware businesses had to deal with in 2018 compared to 2017. During the same timeframe, consumer detections were found to be reduced by three percent.
Experts suggest that lateral movement of malware attacks on businesses will increase by around 60 percent in upcoming years.
Invest in Protection
The best way to prevent a malware attack is by avoiding malware. Prevention is always better than cure, and fortunately, there are some common ways to minimize the chances of you running into malicious software.
- Strange emails, exciting offers, and fake profiles are the best way of delivering malware. So, if you don’t know what exactly there is within a mail or message you receive online, don’t click on it.
- Before downloading files from the internet, double-check whether the provider is trustworthy or not.
- Malware can be found lurking around almost everywhere. But it is most commonly found in websites that hold poor backend security. So, always stick to reputable sites when browsing the web.
- Even if you are an extremely careful internet surfer, you might still end getting attacked by malware. Thus, use malware protection software for real security. Malware protection software solutions detect and stop the malware from infecting your system.
The Best Prevention Technique
There would be millions of reasons why cyber criminals would want to launch a malware attack on your device. To prevent such attacks, you have to vigilant about your online activity as well as install a reputable malware protection software solution.
Nevertheless, the best prevention technique is not to perform malware attacks on others. Start by creating the internet where people can surf safely and without worries. Treat the cyberspace with respect.