Protect Your Devices – What Are Malwares & How Do You Avoid Them?

Introduction

It doesn’t take much consideration to realise that, for most of us, our entire lives are connected to the digital world. From financial details to medical records, to personal interactions, virtually everything can be accessed through our phones and personal computers. All of this data can be compromised by a simple click or tap on the wrong link that leads to a malware infection of your device. As technology advances, so do the tactics of cybercriminals. In this blog, we’ll explore the realm of malware, understand its intricacies, and equip you with effective strategies to fortify your digital defences.

What is a Malware?

Malware, short for malicious software, is a term encompassing a variety of harmful software types designed and developed to exploit, damage, or gain unauthorised access to devices. There are several types of malwares including viruses, worms, spyware, adware, ransomware, and fileless malware:

Virus

A subset of malware, viruses attach to files with macros, remaining dormant until opened. Designed to disrupt, they cause operational issues and data loss.

Worms

Malicious software that rapidly spreads within a network, infecting devices without host programs. Can disrupt operations and lead to data loss, as well.

Trojan Virus

Taking its name after the infamous Trojan Horse of the ancient battles of Troy, a Trojan virus disguises itself as helpful software to gain access to sensitive data, modifying or deleting it, harming device performance. Unlike viruses, they don’t self-replicate.

Spyware

Operates secretly, reporting to a remote user and stealing sensitive information. Focuses on financial or personal data theft, including keystrokes.

Adware

Collects data on computer usage, delivering tailored ads. May redirect browsers to unsafe sites and contain Trojan horses, causing system slowdowns.

Ransomware

Encrypts sensitive information, demanding a financial payout for data release. Often associated with phishing scams and disguised links.

Fileless Malware

Operates from a computer’s memory, making detection difficult. Disappears upon reboot, posing challenges for forensics and highlighting evolving cybersecurity threats.

Most Prominent Cases of Malware Infection

While malware has been a persistent threat, certain cases have left a lasting impact on cyber security.

ILOVEYOU Malware (2000): Spread through email, this worm quickly became one of the most destructive malware strains, causing widespread damage to systems worldwide.
Emotet Trojan (2014): Initially a banking Trojan, Emotet evolved into a versatile threat, infiltrating systems to deliver other forms of malware, posing a significant risk to organizations.
Mirai Botnet (2016): Marking the advent of IoT malware, Mirai harnessed vulnerable IoT devices to launch powerful distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, revealing the vulnerabilities of interconnected smart devices.
Clop Ransomware (2019 to Present): Targeting businesses, Clop (also known as Cl0p) encrypts files and demands a ransom for their release. The shift from individual consumers to businesses has marked a concerning trend in ransomware attacks.

How Do You Avoid Getting It?

Preventing malware infections requires a proactive approach and adherence to best practices.

Use Trusted Antiviruses: Always make sure the protection software you are using is a reputable one. Unverified antiviruses can very well be the very malwares you are trying to avoid.
Update Regularly: Keep your operating system, antivirus software, and other applications up-to-date to patch vulnerabilities that cybercriminals exploit.
Educate Yourself: Stay informed about the latest phishing tactics and cyber security trends. Training and awareness are powerful tools in preventing malware attacks.
Use Strong Passwords: Employ complex passwords and consider multi-factor authentication to add an extra layer of security.
Suspicious Links: Avoid clicking on any suspicious links send in messages and emails and always confirm that the sender is a legitimate individual.

Symptoms of an Infected Computer

Recognising the signs of a malware infection is crucial for swift action.

Sluggish Performance: Malware often consumes system resources, leading to a noticeable decrease in device performance.
Unusual Pop-ups: Unexpected pop-ups or an influx of ads may indicate a malware infection.
Changed Browser Settings: Unauthorised alterations to your browser settings could signal a malware presence.

Stay vigilant and notice any such changes in your devices.

Conclusion

In the face of escalating cyber threats, protecting your devices from malware is an ongoing endeavour. By understanding the nature of malware, staying informed about prevalent threats, and implementing robust security measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to malicious attacks. As the transition to full digitisation of the world continues, the vigilance against cyber threats and the need for up-to-date cyber security protection is ever so important not only for individuals, but for businesses as well.

At AKW Consultants, we understand that small businesses have unique budget constraints. That’s why we offer expert cyber security services at competitive rates. Don’t let the cost deter you; take the step toward greater security and credibility. Contact us today: info@akwconsultants.com