Malware

Malware

1. What is Malware?

   • Malware is software that is designed to cause extensive damage to data and systems or to gain unauthorized access to a network.
     • Malware spreads in computers when you download or install an infected software. It can then attach itself to different files, and travel within a network e.g. it can be attatched onto an email that is sent to someone else .

2. Examples of Malware

   • Virus
     • It is a type of malicious code or program written to alter the way a computer operates and is designed to spread from one computer to another by itslef.
     • Once in your computer, viruses can steal passwords or data, corrupt files, log keystrokes, spam your email contacts, and even take over your computer.
     • To protect yourself against computer viruses, use a trusted antivirus product, avoid clicking on any pop-up ads, scan email attachments before opening them, and scan any file that you are downloading.
   • Worm
     • A computer worm is a standalone malware that replicates itself in order to spread to other computers.
     • Worms can modify and delete files, take up network and hard drive space, steal data and install backdoors.
     • Make sure you are frequently updating your operating system, only downloading trusted files, visiting trusted websites, and using a firewall or security software.
   • Trojan Horse
     • A Trojan horse is malware that misleads the user of its true intent.
     • Once inside your computer, the Trojan horse malware can spread to other files and damage your computer.
     • Make sure you are frequently running security scans, updating your operating system as soon as possible, not visiting unsafe websites, and scanning attachments/files before you download them.
   • Ransomware
     • Ransomware blocks access to a computer system until a sum of money is paid.
     • Victims are at risk of losing their files, but may also experience financial loss due to paying the ransom, lost productivity, IT costs, legal fees, and network modifications.
     • Make sure you are using a firewall, not opening suspicious emails, scanning files before you download them, not clicking on pop-up ads, and only using trusted websites.
   • Spyware
     • Spyware allows a user to gain information about another computer's activites.
     • It can be used to capture passwords, banking credentials and credit card details - which are then sent over the internet to fraudsters.
     • Make sure you are downloading from trusted sites, using an anti-spyware program, only clicking on trusted email attachments, and changing passwords frequently.