Definition
Malware is a catch-all term for any type of malicious software or code that is intentionally designed to cause damage to a computer, server, client, or computer network. Cybercriminals use malware to extract data for financial gain or to achieve illegal objectives, which often includes actions like stealing, encrypting, or deleting sensitive data, altering or hijacking core computing functions, and monitoring computer users’ activity without their permission.
Types of Malware
1. Viruses
Viruses are malicious programs or code that attach themselves to clean files and spread throughout a computer system, infecting the host and other files.
2. Worms
Worms are standalone malicious programs that replicate themselves to spread to other computers within the network without human intervention.
3. Trojans
Trojans are deceptive software programs that disguise themselves as legitimate files or software to trick users into downloading and installing them.
4. Spyware
Spyware is used to collect information from a user’s computer without their knowledge. This can include tracking online activity, collecting keystrokes, and harvesting sensitive data like usernames and passwords.
Examples of Malware
- Mydoom Virus: One of the fastest-spreading email worms created, it significantly impacted the Internet in 2004.
- ILOVEYOU Worm: A virus disguised as a love letter emailed to millions in 2000, causing widespread destruction.
- Zeus Trojan: Notorious for stealing banking information through keystroke logging, active since 2007.
- Stuxnet Worm: A sophisticated worm targeting SCADA systems discovered in 2010, believed to be a state-sponsored attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary goal of malware?
Malware’s primary goal is to damage or disrupt systems, steal data, and gain unauthorized access to networks.
How can I protect my computer from malware?
You can protect your computer by using antivirus software, keeping your operating system and applications up-to-date, avoiding dubious email attachments and downloads, and being cautious of phishing scams.
Is malware always detectable?
No, some sophisticated forms of malware are designed to avoid detection by antivirus software and other security measures.
Can mobile devices get infected with malware?
Yes, mobile devices can also be infected with malware. Common entry points include malicious apps, phishing attacks, and unsecured wireless networks.
Related Terms
- Adware: Software that displays unwanted advertisements on your device.
- Ransomware: Type of malware that encrypts a user’s data and demands payment for the decryption key.
- Rootkit: Software designed to gain administrative-level control over a computer system without being detected.
- Botnet: Network of infected computers controlled remotely by an attacker, often used to carry out large-scale cyber attacks.
Online Resources
- Norton - What is Malware?
- Kaspersky - Types of Malware & Definitions
- MalwareBytes - Malware 101: What is Malware?
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Malware: Fighting Malicious Code” by Ed Skoudis and Lenny Zeltser
- “The Art of Computer Virus Research and Defense” by Peter Szor
- “Practical Malware Analysis: The Hands-On Guide to Dissecting Malicious Software” by Michael Sikorski and Andrew Honig
- “Malware Analyst’s Cookbook and DVD: Tools and Techniques for Fighting Malicious Code” by Michael Ligh, Steven Adair, Blake Hartstein, and Matthew Richard
Fundamentals of Malware: Cybersecurity Basics Quiz
Thank you for exploring the intricacies of malware and testing your cybersecurity knowledge. Continue learning to stay ahead of potential threats!