What Are the Different Types of Malware? Malware can harm your computer and steal data, financial information, and even trade secrets. Malware comes in several different forms and is classified according to its design and spreading methods. For example, adware is one type of malware that can be annoying, but it can also lead to other, more harmful malware. Learn how to recognize each of these types of malware so that you can keep your PC as safe as possible. You can also learn more through Fortinet.
Spyware
Although the definition of spyware is vague, it is generally used to describe a computer virus that collects user information. For example, some mobile spyware can collect call logs, browser histories, contact lists, photos, and SMS messages. Other types of spyware use a device’s microphone to record keystrokes and GPS trackers to determine a person’s location. A mobile device may also be the point of entry for a phishing attack if a hacker uses it to access personal data.
Spyware is installed on a device without the knowledge of the user. It often infiltrates through malicious websites, file attachments, or apps. Once it is installed, spyware begins tracking a user’s activity on the Internet. It can also steal passwords, login information, and other private data. The spyware creator can use this data to steal passwords, spoof identities, or target businesses. In addition, you can even sell it on the dark web.
Rootkits
While there are several types of malware, rootkits are especially dangerous as they can install various tools to steal information. These tools may include credit card numbers and passwords and the ability to disable security software and track keywords. Although these programs are challenging to detect, they can cause significant damage to your computer. One way to eliminate them is to wipe out your operating system. The good news is several free methods to remove them from your system.
There are several ways to prevent rootkit infection. One method is using difference-based analysis, where you compare raw data with data that contains rootkits. It is essential to keep your system patched against known vulnerabilities and to avoid downloading files from untrusted sources. Additionally, always read the end-user license agreements when installing programs. Rootkits are among the most challenging types of malware to remove. But with proper prevention, you can keep your computer safe from them.
Trojan horses
While “trojan horse” refers to several kinds of malware, not all are the same. Cybercriminals have created various Trojan horses to infect computers, and knowing how to protect yourself can help you protect your computer. A Trojan horse is malware masquerading as a practical application or tool for unassuming users. It may even come as an email attachment, which users are inclined to open and download.
The name “trojan” comes from the story of the Greeks, who used a hollow wooden horse to sneak into Troy’s walls during the Trojan War. These Greeks hid inside the horse while the Trojans were sleeping, so they could attack them at night. However, today, various types of malware can infect any computer connected to the Internet. The best way to protect yourself is to install only legitimate programs from reputable sources.
Botnets
Botnets are a class of malware that is controlled by a malicious program called a bot-master. The bots are controlled through IRC chatrooms and use unique commands to assault a target computer network. Bot-masters lease these computers and use them to carry out malicious operations. Internet relay chatbots are a bot that automates tasks and pretends to be real users. This technology is frequently used in botnet attacks.
Cybercriminals use botnets to launch DDoS attacks. DDoS attacks are attempts to flood legitimate services with traffic. These attacks take the affected systems offline, overload bandwidth, or mine cryptocurrency. Because any device connected to the Internet can become a bot, a botnet attack can affect almost any type of Internet-connected device. For this reason, the best way to protect your computer from botnet attacks is to scan the Internet regularly.
