Protect Your Organization From Malware Attacks
Malware is invasive software that infects, damages, or gains access to computer systems. It steals or encrypts data to extort victims, and it spreads from device to device. While malware variants vary in attack methods, they all share a common goal: to compromise security and privacy. Some severe strains of malware are used to commit extortion, fraud, and identity theft, while others gain access to financial information for large-scale heists.
Some examples of malware include viruses, worms, Trojan horses, and logic bombs. Viruses attach to programs and files to infect them, often through email attachments or text messages. They may delete or corrupt data, send data to a cybercriminal, or alter device settings to disable antivirus protection and other security features. Logic bombs are concealed in programs and can be triggered by a user or at a predetermined time to crash the system or wipe a hard drive. Worms spread across network connections by exploiting security vulnerabilities and copying themselves, while Trojan horses masquerade as useful programs to trick users into installing them. Once installed, these Trojans may steal data, send it to malware HQ, or monetize their control of the device by running unwanted advertisements.
Keeping up with the latest in threat research and technology is vital to protecting your organization from malware attacks. Using SIEM and XDR tools to identify, contain, and eradicate threats can limit the damage done by an incident. Notifying stakeholders quickly following an incident can also limit reputational damage, monetary fines, and operational downtime.