Malware
In the last CPVA newsletter (Fall / Winter 2022) we discussed “Phishing”, (Phishing is when scammers pretend to be someone you know, like your bank, employer, or friend and ask you to potentially provide sensitive information like usernames and passwords), which was a timely issue because it had already affected some of our CPVA members. In this issue we will discuss the broader computer security threat of Malware.
Malware, short for “malicious software”, is used by people to intentionally harm and infect computer devices and networks. This umbrella term encompasses many subcategories, including the following:
Adware Spyware Virus Worm Trojan Ransomware Rootkit Key logger Malicious Crypto-mining Exploits
Malware infiltrates systems physically (stores software on your computer/network), via email or over the internet. Malware can also get onto devices and networks via infected USB/thumb drives, unpatched or fraudulent software and applications, insider threats, and vulnerable or misconfigured devices and software.
Often used interchangeably, the common terms of malware and viruses have two distinct meanings:
Malware is an all-encompassing term used to describe any software program that is created with the intent to do harm to a computer or a computer network.
A virus, on the other hand, is a type of malware. Its definition is limited only to software programs that self- replicates or copies itself in order to spread to other devices or areas on a network. Based on the above definitions, the word malware can be used to refer to any type of virus. However, the word virus does not describe all types of malware.
Symptoms of Computer Malware:
Slow performance Unexpected freezing or crashing Diminished storage space New browser toolbars Homepage randomly changes Browser redirects Annoying pop-ups Unusual error messages
Fake virus alerts Disabled system tools Changes in your security settings Files randomly disappear Mysterious social media posts Programs running and closing without your consent
Suspicious applications appear Unexplained increase in internet usage Suspicious shortcut files Ransom demands Everything is working fine (yes, your computer may have no symptoms at all!)
How to Prevent Malware:
Computer malware can damage your computer, send sensitive data to attackers, and cause downtime until your system is repaired. You can avoid becoming the next computer malware victim by following a few best practices:
Install malware detection/protection software from a reliable/valid source:
This is your first defense against malware.
Don’t open executable email attachments:
Many malware attacks including ransomware start with a malicious email attachment. Executable attachments should
never be opened, and users should avoid running macros programmed into files such as Microsoft Word or Excel. Macro is a series of commands and actions that can be stored and run whenever you need to perform a computer task. Macros are used to automate actions that you perform repeatedly or on a regular basis).
Keep your operating system updated:
Developers for all major operating systems release patches/updates to remediate common bugs and security vulnerabilities. Always keep your operating system updated and stop using end-of-life versions (e.g., Windows 7 or Windows XP).
Avoid questionable websites:
Older browsers are vulnerable to exploits used when just browsing a website. You should always keep your browser updated with the latest patches/updates but avoiding these sites will stop redirecting you to sites that host malware.
Don’t use free pirated software:
Free pirated software might be tempting, but it’s often packaged with malware. Download vendor software only from the reliable and official source and avoid using software that’s pirated and shared.
Malware is taking an increasingly enormous financial toll: In 2015, the global cost of malware was an already staggering $500 billion. Fast forward to 2021, and cybercrime is costing an estimated $500 billion every month. The total cost of cybercrime is expected to reach $6 trillion by the end of the year. At the current trajectory; the total cost will reach $10.5 trillion annually in 2025.
Conclusion:
The subject of malware/viruses is complex and can be very confusing, but there is good news. There is a wide variety of effective and reliable malware detection and protection software out there to help you to guard your computer from these malicious attacks.
Article Author: Bredon Adler
CPVA Director / Webmaster
Source: Cybercrime Magazine
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