Types of Malware

Types of Malware:

Ransomware - This malware disables the user's access to data until a ransom is paid, it uses encryption to disable the target's access to data making them unable to operate. This is no guarantee that the decryption key will work.

Fileless Malware - This malware makes changes to files native to the OS such as Powershell, these kinds of attacks are stealthy and more successful.

Spyware - Collects user activity without their permission or knowledge, including passwords, payment information, and private messages and information.

Adware - Unwanted advertisements. This is implemented by tracking user's activity which invades people's privacy. This information is sold to advertisers without the user's consent.

Trojans - Disguised code, can take control of victim's systems for malicious purposes and can hide in many things including games, apps, or emails.

Worms - replicate themselves and spread through a network, targeting vulnerabilities such as backdoors, bugs, or through flash drives. Once installed they can perform DDOS attacks, steal data, or collect ransom.

Rootkits - Gives hackers control over a device, this is done usually by inserting the code into an application and spreading it through mail and drives.

Keyloggers - Monitor victims' keystrokes, this is sometimes used by business organizations to monitor employee activity.

Bots - Launches a broad flood of attacks, these are automated tasks. A large number of bots are called botnets.

Mobile Malware - Infects mobile devices, including phones and laptops, and is distributed through phishing.

Wiper Malware - This malware has a single purpose. Erase user data which is usually unrecoverable. They can be used to take networks down and can potentially take down company networks.

How to detect Malware?

There are several strategies to detect Malware including blocking, whitelisting, and blacklisting. If there is unusual behavior on your device. This can include your device slowing down, shutting down or restarting, pop-ups, sending emails without permission, and running out of battery faster than it should.

How to avoid Malware?

To avoid malware don't click random links or attachments that came from random unknown emails and don't respond to them. Don't download illegal stuff or go to illegal websites, and be careful on file-sharing websites, clicking on random ads.

How to remove Malware?

Before removing malware don't do anything that might leak private information including leaking username passwords, bank information, etc. Check if you have a security software. Most of the time when you're downloading something online your desktop security software will tell you that this is an unknown file and that anything could happen. Make sure your software is up to date. There are applications that scan your devices for malware these can be extremely helpful for getting rid of them. Usually backing up your information is a good idea because anything might happen. Your last option is to format your entire PC and reinstall your OS this is why backing up data is recommended because you might lose valuable data.