Malware

Malware, short for malicious software, refers to a broad category of software specifically designed to harm or exploit computer systems and networks. It encompasses various types such as viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, and spyware, each with unique functionalities aimed at unauthorized access, data theft, or system disruption. Malware can infiltrate devices through infected files, email attachments, or compromised websites, posing a significant threat to the security and privacy of individuals and organizations alike. 

 

Adware

Adware generates revenue for its author. Its also known as advertising-supported software. Adware covers any software package that automatically shows adverts. It may also be in the user interface of a software package or on an instillation screen. Adware by itself is harmless but sometimes it can include spyware such as key loggers. 

 

Key logger

These can take two forms. They can either be legitimately installed to monitor users or it can be installed maliciously. Key loggers collect information and send it back to a third party. Algorithms are used to monitor keyboard use through pattern recognition. Some key loggers only will collect keyboard strokes into one website or application. Others record all keyboard strokes including any info/data that’s copy and pastes. 

 

Remote access Trojan (RAT)

RATs access and infect digital systems, usually through the internet. There typically installed without the user’s content and stays hidden to avoid detection which allows a hacker to control the device remotely. When a RAT is connected to a digital system the hacker can have access to files and folders, login and personal details or use the connection to download other viruses which can infect other digital systems. 

 

Ransomware

These hold a digital system captive and demands a ransom, which is usually money, to realise it. This can restrict user access to the computer system by encrypting files or locking down the computer system. A message is typically displayed to force the user to pay so the restrictions get lifted and so the user can have access to the computer system and data. It gets spread like a worm and can be started by downloading an infected file or by a vulnerability on the computer system. 

 

Spyware

Spyware can collect data from an infected digital system, including personal info like websites visited, user log ins and financial information. It’s hidden from a user and can be difficult to detect. Its often secretly installed on a user’s personal computer without their knowledge. It can also install additional software or redirect wed bowsers to different websites. some spywares can even change computer settings which may lead to slow internet connection speeds or changes in web browser settings. 

 

Trojan

This is a standalone malicious program designed to give full control of a digital system to another system. Trojans often appear to be which is wanted or needed by the user of a digital system. They can be hidden in valid programs and software. They make copies of themselves, steal information, or harm the hosts digital system. 

 

Virus

A virus attempts to make a digital system unreliable. This program replicates itself and spreads to other computers. They increase the chances to spread by infecting files on a network file system or file system that is accessed by other computers. 

 

Worm

A standalone program that replicates itself so it can spread to other digital systems. These can use a network to spread, and unlike viruses a worm does need to attach itself to a existing program. Worms almost always cause harm to a network, even just by consuming bandwidth.