Malware Types and Prevention

Overview

This lecture covers various types of malware, how they operate, their methods of spreading, and best practices for prevention.

Malware is software designed to cause harm, steal data, or disrupt computer operations.
Viruses require human activity to replicate and spread to other computers.
Worms spread automatically between systems without human intervention and are often more dangerous than viruses.
Ransomware encrypts your files and demands payment, usually in cryptocurrency, for a decryption key.
Trojan horses disguise themselves as legitimate software but secretly install malware.
Rootkits hide deep within the operating system, making detection and removal difficult.
Keyloggers record every keystroke, often capturing usernames and passwords for attackers.
Adware and spyware display unwanted ads and collect user data for profit.
Bloatware is pre-installed, unnecessary software that slows down your system but is not inherently malicious.
Logic bombs activate malicious actions when a specific event or time occurs.

Multiple malware types often work together to infect a system (e.g., a worm installs a backdoor for remote access).
Drive-by downloads can install malware without the user's knowledge just by visiting a webpage.
Pop-ups and email links entice users to download and run malicious executables.
Outdated operating systems and applications are vulnerable to new malware exploiting unpatched security holes.

Never click suspicious links, especially those in emails or pop-ups.
Keep your operating system and all applications up to date with the latest security patches.
Removing bloatware can improve system performance and reduce potential vulnerabilities.

Malware — malicious software designed to harm, steal data, or disrupt.
Virus — malware that requires human action to spread.
Worm — self-replicating malware that spreads without human involvement.
Ransomware — malware that encrypts files and demands payment for their return.
Trojan horse — malware hidden inside seemingly legitimate software.
Rootkit — malware embedded in the operating system to avoid detection.
Keylogger — tool that records keystrokes to steal credentials.
Adware/Spyware — software that displays ads or spies on user data.
Bloatware — unnecessary software pre-installed on devices.
Logic bomb — malware triggered by a specific event or time.