Types of Malware

Malicious software (malware) is talked about when dangerous software is used to access and infect a computer or network without being detected. You'll hear terms like viruses, adware, spyware, ransomware, worms, trojan horses, and more. These are all different types of malware that can severely damage computers. Protection against these is the basis of cyber security - looking for malicious code to put a stop to it before it can cause significant damage.

All forms of malware are extremely dangerous once they're on a device, but the way it functions depends on the type. Here, we'll outline several types of malware and a little description of how each type works.

1. Viruses

Function: Replicates itself over and over again once it's activated.
Threat: Viruses corrupt or delete data.
Location: Usually comes in emails.

2. Adware

Function: Throws advertisements up on your screen - usually via pop-ups.
Threat: Can also corrupt your server and stop you from getting online.
Location: Found on the web, but can appear through potentially unwanted programs.

3. Spyware

Function: Secretly clings to your computer's operating system.
Threat: Collects a range of information from your device, including things such as key presses.
Location: Can come in through terms and conditions you agree to.

4. Ransomware

Function: Software from crypto-virology that will lock you out of your files.
Threat: Will block you from your files. Usually comes with a demand for payment to unlock the files, which doesn't guarantee access.
Location: Usually brought in through a download or an attachment in an email.

5. Worms

Function: Relies on vulnerabilities on a device and spreads like a virus.
Threat: Replicates to a point that your network is damaged and bandwidth is consumed.
Location: Found in vulnerable codes.

6. Trojans

Function: Looks legitimate, but is activated once its program is clicked.
Threat: Designed to damage your device in any way. This could be disruption, theft, infection, etc.
Location: Appears in what looks like normal social media ads or other normal links.

These descriptions are only a summary of some of the key components of what these types of malware can do, but they all carry an equal amount of concern if your device is affected. Other types of malware aren't on this list - things like Botnet, Rootkit, Spam, etc.

When malware was first created, it was used for pranks and experiments, but now it's always destructive. We use things like Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) solutions to fight these dangerous attacks. If your network or computer is infected by malware, you should contact a cybersecurity company immediately.

Malware isn't the only form of dangerous attacks online. There are also things like spoofing, phishing, and other security hackers that may be able to break through your computer's basic defences. Book a call with us to learn how we can detect these threats before they become a problem.