What is Malware? What types of Malware are there?

The term “malware” refers to all types of malicious software. The emphasis here is on malware that is installed on your device without your knowledge in order to cause harm. As a result, your device will be slower or even destroyed, which is why you should protect yourself against malware as thoroughly as possible. But what exactly is the source of the various types of malware? And what can you do in the event of an attack?

Malware is frequently confused with computer viruses. However, viruses are only one of many types of malware. The associated malware is typically based on an encrypted code that you receive when you, for example, download a digital product or open a page. This spreads through various channels and remains active on the affected device after the download.

What is Malware?

Malware is frequently confused with computer viruses. However, viruses are only one of many types of malware. The associated malware is typically based on an encrypted code that you receive when you, for example, download a digital product or open a page. This spreads through various channels and remains active on the affected device after the download.

The implications do not always have to be obvious at first glance. Not all malware becomes active in a matter of seconds. Small programmes can also sneak in to scan data, analyse the data stream, and steal passwords, causing only minor damage in the long run. As a result, exercising caution is the most effective way to prevent an Internet-based attack. Everything should be done to avoid malware intrusion, especially in companies with internal networks.

What types of Malware are there?

In the field of malware, there are several categories that can be distinguished. The six categories listed below are useful for defining as many of these malicious software types as possible and classifying any resulting damage.

Ransomware
With ransomware, access to certain areas of data or the entire system is usually blocked. This is followed by a ransom demand that is supposed to lead to an alleged release of the blocked data. However, there is no guarantee, which is why everyone with important data on their own devices is at risk of ransomware.

Spyware
Spyware collects specific information about the existing data and the systems of the device. This makes it possible to monitor a person’s internet activity in order to then forward the data to potential attackers. This includes, for example, login credentials, payment details, credit card information and personal ID.

Worms
Worms aim to penetrate various areas of the computer. To do this, a worm first infects the device, replicates itself and then spreads to other devices. Worms are often used for transmission, and in time, they can integrate additional malware that restricts the security of the device. Other worms only serve to overload a device by clogging networks through their replication.

Adware
One of the most common manifestations of malware is adware. Here, the victim is confronted with a large number of advertisements, including games, toolbars or paid subscriptions. The adware also collects personal data and uses this to optimize advertising and generate more income.

Trojans
A Trojan is a covert attack that infiltrates the device by appearing to be legitimate software. In most cases, the Trojan is activated after installation, with additional malware often being downloaded. In some cases it can take several months before the damage can be localized and successfully eliminated.

Botnets
Botnets are not the classic viruses, but rather a kind of network. The devices or code associated with a botnet are capable of executing malware and infecting a group of devices. The resulting network provides even more devices that can help coordinate new attacks to increase the damage.

What does Malware do?

There are numerous risk factors for your devices due to the various types of malware. At the moment, ransomware is the most direct form of malware, appearing within seconds of installation. Other malware has a delayed effect and is initially undetectable. In this way, they only cause actual damage later, while data and information on the device’s users are collected.

Malware is typically designed to cause specific damage. It acts as a means to an end, obtaining the data required by the hacker. As a result, there is active financial fraud or identity theft, which can then be used for criminal offences. As a result, it is critical to detect and remove malware as soon as possible. However, with the help of a malware scanner, it is possible to detect threats before they manifest themselves and remove the software from affected devices.

Which devices are vulnerable?

In theory, no device is immune to malware infection. If there is insufficient protection, the Android operating system, in particular, is vulnerable to attacks and malware. Malware can also affect iOS, but due to the massive security architecture, this is much less common. Nonetheless, there is now malware that, for example, automatically disables security systems on Mac devices. CrescentCore is a well-known example of MacOS-specific malware. This malware searches the device for existing antivirus programmes and security solutions. When any are discovered, the malware terminates all programmes to prevent detection. The devices are no longer protected, leaving them vulnerable to malware. As a result, it is always advisable to conduct regular audits of your own systems.

How can a Malware infection be detected?

Typically, a malware scanner can be used to quickly determine which programmes on the device can cause harm. However, a scanner of this type is not always included with the device. As a result, you should be aware of the following three symptoms that may indicate the presence of malware:

  • =The computer works much slower than usual
  • =The storage space decreases without the addition of new programs
  • =Pop-ups and unwanted programs are displayed
  • =Some of the data is encrypted

If you notice any of the symptoms listed above, installing a malware scanner is a good idea. This allows even those with little knowledge of malware to precisely determine and localise damage. This eliminates the need to first damage the device.

Protection Against Malware

When a scanner removes malware, it is usually completely removed from the device. In this regard, a malware scanner is an excellent investment for monitoring all operating systems and reliably removing malware. There are free programmes available for this purpose, which can provide more transparency on your devices if desired. This allows you to protect yourself from every type of malware imaginable.

Malware frequently infects computers via email, such as a phishing email. Fortunately, you can avoid this by recognising these messages before the malware infects your computer. This strategy works for businesses, for example, with Hornetsecurity’s Spam Filter Service or Advanced Threat Protection.

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