Malware is a type of software intentionally designed to cause harm to a computer, server, client or computer network. Do you know all types of malware? The various types of malware are virus, Trojan horses, worms, rootkits, spyware, adware, ransomware, bots and scareware.

Virus

A virus is malicious executable code attached to other executable files, often legitimate programs. Most viruses require end-user activation and can be activated at a specific time or date. Most viruses are spread via USB drives, optical discs, network shares or email.

Trojan Horse

A Trojan Horse is malware that performs malicious operations under the guise of a desired function. A Trojan horse differs from a virus in that it is attached to non-executable files.

Worms

Worms are malicious codes replicating themselves by independently exploiting network vulnerabilities. This malware typically slow down the network. After infecting a host, a worm can be transmitted very quickly over the network. 

Rootkit

Rootkit is designed to modify the operating system and create a backdoor. Attackers use backdoors to access computers remotely. Most rootkits use software vulnerabilities to escalate privileges and modify system files. 

Spyware

Spyware is a malware designed to track and spy on the user. This malware often includes activity trackers, touchscreen collection and data capture. Spyware usually attaches itself to legitimate software or Trojans.

Ransomware

Ransomware is a malware designed to hold a computer system or the data included until payment is made. This malware usually works by encrypting data on the computer with a key unknown to the user. Other versions of ransomware may use specific system vulnerabilities to lock down the system. Ransomware is spread via a downloaded file or some software vulnerability.

Adware

Adware is an ad-supported software designed to deliver advertisements automatically. Some types of adware are designed to deliver ads only, but it is common for adware to come bundled with spyware. Contamination occurs because adware is usually found bundled with some software versions.

Bot

From the word “robot,” a bot is a malware designed to act, usually online automatically. While most bots are harmless, the increasing use of malicious bots is botnets. Several computers are infected with bots programmed to wait calmly for commands given by the attacker.

Scareware

Scareware is a malware designed to persuade the user to perform a specific action based on fear. This malware simulates pop-up windows that resemble operating system dialogue windows. These windows transmit spoofed messages claiming that the system is at risk or needs a specific program to run to return to regular operation. In reality, no problems were evaluated or detected. If the user agrees and runs the mentioned program for cleaning, his system will be infected with malware.

Browse safely

Not wanting to scare anyone, these are the threats. We’ve already talked about the possibilities of how to have more security on the internet. If you follow the tips posted here, the tendency is for you to have all the peace of mind in the world. Not everything is safe, but that’s not why you’ll stop using the internet, okay? Browse safely, but browse.

Source: Cisco Networking Academy

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