What Is Malware and How Does It Affect Your Computer?
Malware, short for malicious software, is any type of program that a cybercriminal uses to steal data or disrupt devices and networks. Often, attackers use malware to gain unauthorized access and extort ransom payments from victims. While there are many different types of malware, some of the most common include viruses, worms and Trojans.
While viruses and worms are dangerous in their own right, Trojans are even more troublesome because they often mimic legitimate software to disguise their true purpose. Trojans typically download additional malware onto a system through back-and-forth communications with the attacker’s command and control (C&C) servers.
Unlike viruses and worms, which are capable of shutting down systems or deleting files, Trojans can also steal data, alter core computer functions and monitor end users. In fact, a single Trojan can do all of this at once if it becomes a bot, part of a network that performs harmful tasks without the victims’ knowledge.
Threat actors use malware for a variety of reasons, from making money to sabotage work or make a political statement. Ransomware and cryptojacking are two popular examples, but the list of malicious tactics goes on:
While it’s uncommon for malware to damage physical hardware on computers or networks (with one notable exception), they can still harm end users and organizations in various ways. For example, a malware infection can result in lost productivity due to system delays or sluggishness. Attackers can also use malware to steal sensitive information like login credentials, intellectual property and financial data; steal device resources for botnets or cryptocurrency mining (known as cryptojacking); or cause service disruptions in hospitals, power grids and transportation systems.