Worms in Malware: What You Need to Know

Malware, short for “malicious software,” is any software, code, or computer program designed to harm a computer system or its users. Virtually every modern cyberattack uses malware. These applications can be dangerous and expensive (ransomware) or bothersome but harmless (adware).

Every year, organizations and people receive billions of virus attacks. Windows, Mac, iPhone, and Android can all be infected by malware.

Cybercriminals create malware to:

• Lock up gadgets, data, or enterprise networks for big money.
• Access sensitive data or digital assets without authorization.
• Steal login passwords, credit card numbers, IP, PII, or other sensitive information.
• Destroy vital business and government systems.

Although often used interchangeably, not all malware is a virus. Malware encompasses many hazards, including:

Computer viruses: A computer virus is a harmful program that cannot replicate without human input, such as clicking a link, downloading an attachment, launching an application, or other acts.

Worms: Self-replicating viruses, worms tunnel deep into computer systems and move between devices without human input.

Botnets: A group of infected computers controlled by a single attacker called the “bot-herder” operating together.

Ransomware: One of the most destructive types of malware, ransomware assaults lock users out of crucial computer systems or sensitive data and demand extortionate Bitcoin ransoms to recover access. One of the most deadly cyber threats is ransomware.

Multi-extortion ransomware: As if ransomware attacks weren’t scary enough, multi-extortion ransomware adds layers to hurt victims or pressure them to capitulate. Double-extortion ransomware attacks encrypt and exfiltrate sensitive files like customer data, which attackers threaten to reveal publicly. Triple-extortion attacks threaten to disrupt crucial systems or harm customers or contacts.

Macro viruses: Larger apps employ macros to automate simple activities. Programmatic macros allow macro viruses to insert harmful software in application files that execute when the user opens them.

Trojans: Like the Trojan Horse, trojans mislead users into installing them by masquerading as useful programs or hiding within genuine software.

Spyware, used in digital espionage, lurks on infected systems to steal sensitive data and send it to an attacker.

Adware, which is usually harmless, is packaged with free software and spams users with pop-ups and other adverts. Adware may collect personal data or lead browsers to dangerous sites.

Rootkit: Malware that gives hackers administrator-level access to a computer’s operating system or other assets.