Types of Malware
Overview
Let’s learn about different types of malware in this tutorial. Malware is malicious software designed by hackers to damage or gain unauthorized access to a victim’s computer.
Internet security is a serious issue for Internet users. It is very important to keep yourself updated with the latest malware and hacking issues.
Types of Malware
Some types of malware are as follows:
- Virus
- Trojan Horse
- Worms
- Ransomware
- Spyware
- Rootkits
Virus
A computer virus is a type of malware that attaches to another program and replicates itself and spreads from one computer to another in the computer network. Computer viruses are called viruses because they share some of the characteristics of biological viruses.
For example, a biological virus spreads from person to person, similarly, a computer virus spreads from one computer to another computer.
Trojan Horse
A Trojan horse is a type of malware that downloads onto a computer disguised as a legitimate program. Unlike viruses, Trojans do not replicate themselves, but they can be destructive. Some Trojans open a backdoor entry for the hacker allowing unauthorized access to the system. We can categorize trojans into many different types.
Worms
A worm is a type of malware that is self-contained software and can replicate to other computers using the computer network. Unlike viruses, worms do not attach themselves to other programs. Worms use computer networks and security vulnerabilities to replicate themselves.
Ransomware
Ransomware is a type of malware that allows a hacker to encrypt the data on the computer system. This makes the system unusable for the legitimate computer user(victim). The hacker demands the computer user pay money to unlock the computer system. Payment is usually demanded in cryptocurrencies like Bitcoins.
Spyware
Spyware is a type of Malware that gathers information about a person or organization without their consent and knowledge. Spyware is also called spybots. Spyware is tracking software that’s installed on someone’s computer to secretly gather information about the user, company, etc, and send it to interested parties. The main use of spyware is for espionage purposes.
Rootkits
Rootkits are designed to gain unauthorized access and gain administrative control over a victim’s system. Rootkits are mostly used for stealthy and persistent attacks.
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