8 types of malware – from ransomware to cryptojacking
MALWARE is rife, especially when we're all so dependent on connected devices these days.
It can be hard to keep track of what's what, with new threats emerging all the time, so here we explain everything you need to know.
What is malware?
Malware is shortened term meaning malicious software.
It comes in all shapes and sizes, such as viruses, trojans and worms.
Cyber-criminals make and use them, most of the time for their own financial gain.
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Types of malware
There are loads of different forms of malware emerging all the time.
Some of the most prolific among them include:
Spyware
As the name suggests, spyware involves some form of spying activity.
This usually consists of sniffing about for precious data, like your passwords or bank details.
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Keylogger
Keylogger is used to record a person's key strokes.
Doing so allows hackers to find out your passwords.
Rootkit
Rootkit works like a toolkit of software.
It gives a hacker the ability to control a computer or system remotely as an administrator would.
Adware
Adware is a particularly annoying problem.
It causes ads and popups to appear on your device.
Ransomware
Ransomware is one you'll hear a lot of - and is particularly nasty.
It locks you out of your files and demands a hefty ransom to unlock them - and even if you pay, there's no guarantee they'll actually give you access to your files again.
Scareware
This is essentially a trick form of ransomware which can be disabled pretty easily by a user.
Cryptojacking
Crypto mining requires a lot of machines to generate bitcoin.
Cryptojacking allows hackers to make your machine a cog in their mining activities and slows your device down.
Malvertising
Malvertising is where hackers put adverts on legitimate and trusted platforms.
But they hide code in the advert that actually directs the user to a malicious website or installs malware onto their computer.
How dangerous is malware?
Malware can be financially devastating.
In the past it's been used to steal banking information, bring hospitals to a standstill, and even invade Government and nuclear systems.
Back in May 2017, the Wannacry ransomware attack became known as one of the worst cyber attacks in history.
Wannacry caused estimated losses of $4billion from 2017 to 2020, by demanding ransom payments made in Bitcoin cryptocurrency.
The NHS, FedEx, Honda, Nissan and Renault were famously victims of this malware attack.
How to get rid of malware
Vigilance should always be your approach to anything on the internet.
But Spam email is actually the most common way malware finds its way onto machines.
So be careful with any unusual links or attachments in emails.
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You can also use antivirus software to protect yourself.
And even if you're doing all this, play it safe by regularly backing up your files.
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