How Malware Infects Your Device
Malware is any software created to harm or exploit programmable devices like computers, mobile phones, tablets, and even smart TVs. This malicious software can crack weak passwords, bore deep into systems, infect networks, and even hold data hostage in ransom attacks. It’s behind the massive data breaches that expose your personal information and bank accounts. It’s the reason you should never click on an attachment in an email or install something from a questionable source. And it’s the reason you should pay attention to requests for extra software (also known as bundleware) when installing apps.
The most common way cybercriminals infect your device with malware is through exploitation of security vulnerabilities. Attackers can find these flaws in the code of your operating system, web browser, or other third-party programs. Or they can trick you into opening infected attachments or clicking on links through email, messaging apps, or online advertising — also known as malvertising.
Viruses and other malware infections can then spread from one computer to another by inserting their code into other files and programs. They can be carried on USB drives or other removable media, or they can enter a network through unsecure routers and other hardware. They can even infect your phone or tablet through compromised applications downloaded from app stores or other download sources.
Once an infection is in place, it can do anything from steal your information to drain your battery or run up your internet bill. It can even cause you to lose valuable time while your computer or device is held hostage for a ransom payment.