What Is Malware and How Does It Affect Your Computer?
Malware is a term that encompasses any software that has been written with malicious intent. It can include viruses, ransomware, spyware, Trojans, and other destructive computer programs threat actors use to infect systems and networks.
Viruses are the most common type of malware, but there are other types that can also infect a computer system. These include worms and trojans, which are self-replicating infections that don’t require human assistance to spread across the internet.
Botnets are networks of infected computers that connect back to a command and control (C&C) server and self-propagate to attack a wide range of targets. They can be used to commit DDoS attacks, encrypt data, or even block access to a system.
Worms: These infections can self-replicate and spread without any user input, and they are often hard to detect because they hide within the operating system. They are also difficult to remove once they’re infected.
RATs: Remote administration tools are a type of malware that secretly allows a threat actor to remotely access an infected system. They enable administrative control and are commonly used in cyberwarfare and international espionage, as well as by law enforcement agencies.
Adware: Like spyware, adware tracks a device’s browsing history and download history to serve targeted advertisements. It can also collect personal information, including passwords and credit card details.
Keyloggers: These programs log your keystrokes, enabling attackers to record your login and password details.
The most dangerous malware is ransomware, which locks your device or computer’s files and encrypts them with the goal of demanding payment to restore access. These types of attacks are often aimed at governments and large corporations, as well as businesses that store sensitive data.