Malware

Malware Definition

• [i] Malware) - (definition:: Any unauthorized software or code that is designed to cause harm, disruption, or gain unauthorized access to a computer system or network) - (subject:: Cybersecurity

Types of Malware:

1. Viruses: Malicious code that can replicate itself and infect other files or systems, often requiring user interaction to execute.
2. Worms: Self-replicating malware that can spread across networks without user interaction, consuming system resources.
3. Ransomware: Malware that encrypts a victim's data and demands a ransom payment to restore access.
4. Botnets: Networks of compromised computers under the control of a malicious actor, used for coordinated attacks like DDoS.
5. Rootkits: Stealthy malware that operates at a low level to hide its presence and gain full control of a system.
6. Buffer Overflows: Exploits vulnerabilities in software to overwrite memory and execute arbitrary code.
7. Trojan Horses: Seemingly benign applications that conceal malicious payloads.
8. Spyware: Software the collects and transmits user data and browsing habits without consent.
9. Adware: Software that displays unwanted advertisements, often bundled with freeware.
10. Scareware: Malware that tries to frighten users into paying for fake security solutions.
11. Zero-Day Exploits: Exploits targeted at unknown vulnerabilities that have not yet been patched by vendors.

Malware Infection Vectors:

It can infect systems through different vectors, including:

• Phishing emails with malicious attachments or links.
• Infected websites or downloads
• Removable media like USB drives
• Exploiting unpatched vulnerabilities