What is Malware?
Malware is a collective term for programs that have been developed to harm users. There are numerous sub-types of Malware – for example, viruses, Trojans, rootkits, or spyware. All work differently and have different tasks. However, they have one goal in common: to harm you.
How Do you Catch Malware?
Malware can lurk practically anywhere – whether on the net when surfing, opening a download or an email attachment or connecting a USB stick. You rarely notice that your own PC has been infected – unless your anti-virus software has averted the danger.
Even if there are dangers everywhere, you do not have to unplug the network cable and stop surfing. With the necessary software and a critical look at websites, downloads, and emails, you don’t have to worry.
Types of Malware
Virus
A virus consists of just one file that contains malicious code. It infiltrates the virus into a program, usually makes it unusable, and then tries to spread it further.
Trojan horse
The Trojan horse is also known as a Trojan horse because the user installs a supposedly useful program, which subsequently gives rise to a threat. In this way, it usually introduces other types of Malware
Adware
The adware is the most harmless form of a virus because it does no real damage to your system. It usually nests in the browser as a toolbar or add-on and tries to display advertisements and influence your surfing behavior.
Spyware
The spyware collects sensitive data that you save on your computer or enter during online banking. The information is then sent to the spyware creator.
Worm
A worm works similarly to a virus but primarily does not affect any programs. Worms tend to target storage media such as USB sticks and external hard drives.
Rootkit
A rootkit usually reaches the PC via other Malware, such as a Trojan, and allows the creator access to certain parts of your system.
Backdoor
These “back doors” are infiltrated by other Malware and will also allow the creator permanent access to your system.
Exploit
An exploit takes advantage of security holes in the system or programs and can even control the entire PC.
Keylogger
They document every keystroke on your keyboard. For example, if you enter your account number and PIN in online banking, the keylogger sends the data to its creator.
Ransomware
This type of Malware uses software to block parts of your system and quasi ransom for the release.
Rogueware
Rogueware (scareware) is a software that pretends to be a virus scanner, for example. After the alleged discovery of numerous viruses, the program requires the full version’s purchase to remove the fictitious dangers.
Fileless Malware
As the name suggests, this Malware is not files that are stored on the hard drive. Fileless Malware is only in the RAM of your PC. The use of Malware is to download additional malware to the computer.
Crypto-Miner
Crypto-Miner uses your computer to mine cryptocurrencies. Since the Malware uses your resources to do this, your PC becomes very slow.
How to protect yourself from Malware?
- Anti-virus software: The key to protecting against viruses is an anti-virus program that always receives updates. This way, you are protected against the latest viruses. Good and free software is available from Avira, Avast, AVG, Comodo, and BitDefender.
- Firewall: The firewall is already activated by default in Windows. It controls all incoming and outgoing connections and blocks them in the event of abnormalities.
- Updates: To keep your system and your programs safe, you should always use the latest updates for Windows installed and only the latest versions of your programs.
Also Read: What Cybersecurity Services Do Companies Need?