What type of malware can be used to carry a malicious payload?
Malware encompasses all types of malicious software, including viruses, and cybercriminals use it for many reasons, such as: Tricking a victim into providing personal data for
identity theft Stealing consumer credit card data or other financial data Assuming control of multiple computers to launch denial-of-service attacks against other networks Infecting computers and using them to mine bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies Since its birth more than 30 years ago, malware has found several methods of attack. They include email attachments, malicious advertisements on popular sites (malvertising), fake software installations, infected USB drives, infected apps, phishing emails and even text messages. Unfortunately, there is a lot of malware out there, but understanding the different types of malware is one way to help protect your data and devices: Viruses A virus usually comes as
an attachment in an email that holds a virus payload, or the part of the malware that performs the malicious action. Once the victim opens the file, the device is infected. Ransomware One of the most profitable, and therefore one of the most popular, types of malware amongst cybercriminals is ransomware. This malware installs itself onto a victim’s machine, encrypts their files, and then turns around and demands a ransom (usually in Bitcoin) to return that data to the user. Scareware Cybercriminals scare us into thinking that our computers or smartphones have become infected to convince victims to purchase a fake application. In a typical scareware scam, you might see an alarming message while browsing the Web that says “Warning: Your computer is infected!” or “You have a virus!” Cybercriminals use these programs and unethical advertising practices to frighten users into purchasing rogue applications. Worms Worms have the ability to copy themselves from machine to machine, usually by exploiting some sort of security weakness in a software or operating system and don’t require user interaction to function. Spyware Spyware is a program installed on your computer, usually without your explicit knowledge, that captures and transmits personal information or Internet browsing habits and details to its user. Spyware enables its users to monitor all forms of communications on the targeted device. Spyware is often used by law enforcement, government agencies and information security organizations to test and monitor communications in a sensitive environment or in an investigation. But spyware is also available to consumers, allowing purchasers to spy on their spouse, children and employees. Trojans Trojans masquerade as harmless applications, tricking users into downloading and using them. Once up and running, they then can steal personal data, crash a device, spy on activities or even launch an attack. Adware Adware programs push unwanted advertisements at users and typically display blinking advertisements or pop-up windows when you perform a certain action. Adware programs are often installed in exchange for another service, such as the right to use a program without paying for it. Fileless malware Fileless malware is a type of malicious software that uses legitimate programs to infect a computer. Fileless malware registry attacks leave no malware files to scan and no malicious processes to detect. It does not rely on files and leaves no footprint, making it challenging to detect and remove. The most common signs that your computer has been compromised by malware are: Slow computer performance Browser
redirects, or when your web browser takes you to sites you did not intend to visit Infection warnings, frequently accompanied by solicitations to buy something to fix them Problems shutting down or starting up your computer Frequent pop-up ads The more of these common symptoms you see, the higher the likelihood your computer has a malware infection. Browser redirects and large numbers of pop-up warnings claiming
you have a virus are the strongest indicators that your computer has been compromised. Even though there are a lot of types of malware out there, the good news is, there are just as many ways to protect yourself from malware. Check out these top tips: Protect your devices Keep your operating system and applications updated. Cybercriminals look for vulnerabilities in old or outdated software, so make sure you install updates as soon as they become available. Never click on a link in a popup. Simply close the message by clicking on “X” in the upper corner and navigate away from the site that generated it. Limit the number of apps on your devices.
Only install apps you think you need and will use regularly. And if you no longer use an app, uninstall it. Use a mobile security solution like McAfee® Security, available for Android and iOS. As malware and adware campaigns continue to infect mobile applications,
make sure your mobile devices are prepared for any threat coming their way. Don’t lend out your phone or leave your devices unattended for any reason, and be sure to check their settings and apps. If your default settings have changed, or a new app has mysteriously appeared, it might be a sign that spyware has been installed.
Be careful online
Pay attention to downloads and other software purchases
Perform regular checks
With these tips and some reliable security software, you’ll be well on your way to protecting your data and devices from all kinds of malware. What type of malware is a payload?In cybersecurity, a payload is malware that the threat actor intends to deliver to the victim. For example, if a cybercriminal sent out an email with a malicious Macro as the attachment and the victim gets infected with ransomware, then the ransomware is the payload (and not the email or document).
What is the most malicious type of malware?10 of the most dangerous malware threats. Windows OS Ransomware.. Zeus Gameover.. Agent Tesla.. Fleeceware.. IoT device attacks.. Cryptojacking.. Social engineering.. What is a Trojan payload?In the world of malware, the term payload is used to describe what a virus, worm or Trojan is designed to do on a victim's computer. For example, payload of malicious programs includes damage to data, theft of confidential information and damage to computer-based systems or processes.
What are the 3 types of malware attacks?What Are the Most Common Types of Malware Attacks?. 1) Adware.. 2) Fileless Malware.. 3) Viruses.. 4) Worms.. 5) Trojans.. 6) Bots.. 7) Ransomware.. 8) Spyware.. |