Common Types of Malware Threats

-What is malware ?

Short for malicious software, malware refers to any intrusive software developed by cybercriminals or hackers to steal data and damage or destroy computers and computer systems.

virus

• Attaches to a file that executes when the file is opened.

• Can move, corrupt, encrypt, or delete data files.

Worm

• Can replicate itself from one device to another across a network. 

• Used to delete files, steal information, create a backdoor, or distribute other forms of malware. 

Adware

• Advertising-supported software that displays unwanted advertisements on your computer.

Ransomware

• Encrypts a user’s files, making it impossible for the user to open them. 

• Attackers then demand payment to release the decryption key that the user will need to gain access to their files. 

Rootkit

• A program that provides an attacker with elevated access to a computer. 

• The program can control the computer without the user’s or target system’s knowledge.