What is Malware and How Does it Affect Your Computer Or Mobile Device?
Malware is software, usually computer viruses and worms, that criminals use to do all sorts of things, including encrypt your data so you can’t get it back (ransomware), steal your personal information, or use your PC or mobile device to attack others. These malicious programs can cause damage to a system or network and may even threaten the life of users in extreme cases.
Cybercriminals often distribute malware through email, file attachments or websites. They can also infect your devices with a remote access Trojan (RAT) that enables them to take control of the device or a network. Signs your computer or mobile device has been infected by malware include increased data usage or a fast-dissolving battery charge, as well as calls and texts to your contacts without your knowledge.
Historically, malware was spread through a floppy disk or other medium, but now most attacks start on your computer, smartphone or tablet with a simple click of a link or download of a file. Some of the most popular malware types are worms, Trojan horses and spyware. Worms clone themselves and then infect additional systems, while Trojans appear to be legitimate programs but contain malicious instructions. A RAT allows attackers to take remote control of the infected device and steals personal information. Logic bombs activate at a pre-determined time or under certain conditions, like after 20th log-on to an account, and can do anything from changing bytes of data to rendering the hard drive unreadable.