IT Support & SecurityWritten By: Suman Kumar Paul

Malicious software generally termed as "Malware”, poses a vulnerability to your devices as well as your cyber security. The cyber attacker creates the malware to gain access rights or to harm a computer or network,  without the victim's awareness.

What Is a Malware Attack?

A malware attack originates when hackers develop harmful software that is installed on some other person's device. It never asks for their permission to obtain access to confidential information or harm the device, typically for financial benefit. Malware comes in many forms, including viruses, key loggers, ransomware, spyware, and Trojan horses. Malware assaults may happen on any device or operating system, namely Microsoft Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.


What are the Types of Malware Attacks?

Malware attacks are getting much more complex by the year. Although malware can sometimes be hard to trace, and devices get compromised without the user's knowledge, it is one of the most dangerous problems to your private data and identity that you should be aware of.

Here are some of the most prevalent types of malware assaults. It does create multiple cyber security risks as well.

•    Malvertising

Malware advertising is known as Malvertising. Most cybercriminals possess a legal advertising space on genuine websites but these ads will contain harmful malware. These ads don’t require any users input to infect the device. It automatically corrupts the targeted device once the user visits the compromised website.

•    Social Engineering and Malware Attacks

Social engineering, or the manipulation of human emotions, is a common malware transmission technique. Spam phishing over email, instant messaging, social media, and other techniques are performed in social engineering. The objective is to mislead the user towards downloading malware or clicking a link to a corrupted website where the virus is hosted.

•    Malicious Websites and Drive-By-Downloads

A drive-by download occurs when a person accesses a fraudulent website that holds an exploit kit facilitating malware infections. Apart from accessing the compromised webpage, there is no input required from the user's side. The exploit kit will seek access to the device and install malware.

•    Exploit Kit

Exploit kits are malware toolkits used by hackers to identify software flaws on a target's PC or mobile device. The kits include executable code that searches for security holes.This is indeed a highly successful malware attack type. Therefore, it is essential to install software updates and patches as soon as they are released.

What Should You Do to Avoid Malware Attacks?

Malware is a sad consequence of the internet and all networked devices. However, VTPL suggests certain precautions you can take to minimize malware infections. Here are a few ideas:

•    Perform Regular Software Updates

Software updates are essential as they repair identified security flaws and correct or eliminate technical glitches. It's a good idea to install software updates and patches as soon as they become released.

•    Before Launching Executable Files, Scan Them

"Executable" files with the extension ".exe." contain step-by-step procedures for a computer to perform a task. By double-clicking the.exe file, you will direct your computer to run these instructions using a software application. Several software solutions include antivirus software; however, it’s best to select one that scans in real-time instead of manually.

•    Backup Files Regularly

Copy your files to a portable hard drive or a reliable online backup provider on a routine basis to eliminate malware infection. Back up all your stuff from all of your devices, including tablets, laptops, and smartphones.
 

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See Also - How to Handle a Data Breach at the Workplace?