Types of malware: Discovering their forms
Posted: Sun Dec 15, 2024 7:05 am
Since the advent of the Internet, malware types have grown exponentially, becoming one of the most serious types of cyber threats that any user connected to the Internet has to face. This malicious software infiltrates computer systems with the aim of causing damage, stealing private data or simply disrupting normal operations .
It affects both individual devices and large networks, causing everything from minor inconveniences to home users to huge financial losses to large multinationals. Knowing the different forms of malware that can be found is essential so that you can take the appropriate protective measures and thus minimise its potential impact, which can be truly devastating!
Types of malware and examples
Main types of malware
There are many different types of malware that can be classified, but they all have one thing in common: it is vital to be informed and protected against all of them. That is why we are going to show you the 7 types of malware that you should always be on the lookout for , each of which has very different characteristics and attack methods!
Virus
A computer virus is a type of malware designed to replicate and spread to other files and systems , disrupting the normal functioning of the device. They are activated by user interaction, such as opening an infected file or running a program designed for this purpose , or one that has been corrupted.
Viruses can corrupt or delete data, cause system malfunctions, or use excessive resources, thus negatively affecting the efficiency of the device.
Trojans
Trojans are malware that disguise themselves as legitimate software to denmark business email list trick users into installing them on their devices. Once active, these Trojans can perform different malicious actions, such as deleting files, stealing information, or installing more malware .
They are characterized by operating covertly, giving attackers the opportunity to gain remote access to the infected device.
Spyware
Spyware is a type of spying malware that collects information without the user's consent. It can monitor and record all kinds of data, such as banking details, passwords, or browsing habits .
This type of malware is often installed through drive-by downloads , and its presence can go unnoticed for a long time, allowing attackers to collect a large amount of personal and sensitive information.
Ransomware
Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts files on a device and demands a ransom to unlock them. Cybercriminals use methods such as phishing and drive-by downloads to get it onto computers . By clicking on malicious links or attachments in emails, the user accidentally triggers the ransomware, which then encrypts data, often deleting backups as well, to put further pressure on the user to pay.
This type of malware is very dangerous because it can result in the permanent loss of personal or corporate data.
Adware
Adware is so called because it injects unwanted ads into your browser or applications. It is often bundled with some types of free software, as well as in deceptive downloads, pretending to be part of the desired software .
Although adware may seem less destructive, the reality is that it harms the user experience and can compromise security by redirecting to malicious websites or collecting browsing data without your consent, putting users' privacy and security at risk.
Rootkits
A rootkit is a set of tools that allows attackers to gain access to or control a computer system without being detected . They are installed in the kernel or other strategic locations within the operating system, where they can hide other malware and its activities.
Rootkits are often introduced through security vulnerabilities or bundled with other malware. They are dangerous because they can bypass security software and give attackers continued access to your computer , posing a serious security and privacy risk.
It affects both individual devices and large networks, causing everything from minor inconveniences to home users to huge financial losses to large multinationals. Knowing the different forms of malware that can be found is essential so that you can take the appropriate protective measures and thus minimise its potential impact, which can be truly devastating!
Types of malware and examples
Main types of malware
There are many different types of malware that can be classified, but they all have one thing in common: it is vital to be informed and protected against all of them. That is why we are going to show you the 7 types of malware that you should always be on the lookout for , each of which has very different characteristics and attack methods!
Virus
A computer virus is a type of malware designed to replicate and spread to other files and systems , disrupting the normal functioning of the device. They are activated by user interaction, such as opening an infected file or running a program designed for this purpose , or one that has been corrupted.
Viruses can corrupt or delete data, cause system malfunctions, or use excessive resources, thus negatively affecting the efficiency of the device.
Trojans
Trojans are malware that disguise themselves as legitimate software to denmark business email list trick users into installing them on their devices. Once active, these Trojans can perform different malicious actions, such as deleting files, stealing information, or installing more malware .
They are characterized by operating covertly, giving attackers the opportunity to gain remote access to the infected device.
Spyware
Spyware is a type of spying malware that collects information without the user's consent. It can monitor and record all kinds of data, such as banking details, passwords, or browsing habits .
This type of malware is often installed through drive-by downloads , and its presence can go unnoticed for a long time, allowing attackers to collect a large amount of personal and sensitive information.
Ransomware
Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts files on a device and demands a ransom to unlock them. Cybercriminals use methods such as phishing and drive-by downloads to get it onto computers . By clicking on malicious links or attachments in emails, the user accidentally triggers the ransomware, which then encrypts data, often deleting backups as well, to put further pressure on the user to pay.
This type of malware is very dangerous because it can result in the permanent loss of personal or corporate data.
Adware
Adware is so called because it injects unwanted ads into your browser or applications. It is often bundled with some types of free software, as well as in deceptive downloads, pretending to be part of the desired software .
Although adware may seem less destructive, the reality is that it harms the user experience and can compromise security by redirecting to malicious websites or collecting browsing data without your consent, putting users' privacy and security at risk.
Rootkits
A rootkit is a set of tools that allows attackers to gain access to or control a computer system without being detected . They are installed in the kernel or other strategic locations within the operating system, where they can hide other malware and its activities.
Rootkits are often introduced through security vulnerabilities or bundled with other malware. They are dangerous because they can bypass security software and give attackers continued access to your computer , posing a serious security and privacy risk.