The Many Faces of Malware

Malware is one of the biggest threats facing corporate and home computer users today.  A portmanteau of the words “malicious” and “software”, malware refers to a type of program specifically designed to penetrate or damage a computer system.  The affects of such software varies greatly, ranging from subtle annoyances to catastrophic disasters.  This article will introduce you to some of the most common forms of malware and offer a few tips for keeping them away from your computer. 

Viruses

The granddaddy of all malicious software, viruses represent the most popular type of malware.  This threat has been so widely deployed it is often used to refer to other forms of malware.  Just like its biological counterpart, a computer virus spreads by propagating itself from host to host, a process that is aided by latching onto various files and programs.  Though email is the primary method of distribution, a virus can also be distributed via infected media such as a CD or floppy disk.  Viruses have been responsible for a lot of damage over the years, one of the most notable incidents being the Melissa outbreak that shut down the Internet’s entire mail system in 1999.  Almost always, a virus is launched by user intervention, executing itself when someone clicks on a file or link that contains the malicious code. 

Worms

Closely associated with the virus, a computer worm is a self-replicating type of malware often used to disrupt networks.  Malicious software writers often use worms in conjunction with other exploits such as Trojans and DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attacks.  Although worms are notoriously known for leaching off bandwidth and slowing down networks, some function like viruses and will modify or completely delete files on the infected system.   Unlike a virus, a worm doesn’t need to attach itself to existing files as it has the ability to send copies of itself throughout networks without user intervention.  This type of malware gets its victims by exploiting vulnerabilities in computer systems.   

Trojans

Trojans represent the most deceptive type of malware, often masquerading as free software or other files that may appear desirable to the user.  They may also be the most dangerous as there is no standard function that entails what this type of malware can or cannot do.  With the said, a Trojan typically doesn’t self-replicate and propagate from host to host.  Instead, it tricks you into clicking a malicious file and triggering its payload.  Once installed, a Trojan may disable security settings or open a backdoor that provides its creator with remote access.  Another common function involves installing other types of malware onto a compromised system. 

Preventive Measures

At best, a malware infection will make your computer run terribly slow and experience frequent crashes.  In a worst case scenario, it will overwrite files, steal your personal information or render your system completely inoperable.  When considering that scams and identity theft are on the rise, one should make it a priority to avoid these threats at all costs.  The best way to prevent infection is to practice safe computing and lock your system down with reliable security software, preferably an application that detects all known forms of malware.  Countless amounts of computers have been compromised throughout the world and without adequate protection, you could be next victim.