Cyber Threats : Malware

DEWI IKA (2110501032) AUGUSTA UNIVERSITY Cyber threats : Malware 1. What exactly is malware? Software intended to harm or destroy computer systems, networks, or other devices is referred to as malware, which is short for malicious software. Virens, worms, Trojan horses, spyware, and adware are just a few examples of the many distinct types of malware. A sort of software called malware is intended to harm computer networks, devices, or computer systems. It frequently has malicious intent when it is generated, and its goals might vary from stealing private data to causing system failures or other types of harm. Malware can enter a system through a variety of channels, such as email attachments, nefarious websites, or hacked software. The word "malware" is a general one that covers a variety of dangerous software. Viruses, worms, Trojan horses, spyware, and adware are some of the most prevalent kinds of malware. All of these malware varieties have different traits and ways of working, but they all aim to harm or destroy a system or network in some way. Malware poses a serious threat to people, businesses, and governments alike. Its effects may be extensive and protracted and may result in data breaches, financial losses, and other types of harm. Downloading anti-malware and antivirus applications, upgrading operating systems and software on a regular basis, and exercising caution when opening attachments from emails or visiting on links coming from untrusted sources are all important precautions to take in order to safeguard against malware. 2. What malware varieties are there? Malware comes in a variety of forms, including: a) Viruses are self-replicating programs that propagate throughout a system by contaminating other files. b) Worms are independent programs that may infect computers and networks without first attaching to a host file. c) Trojans are programs that seem innocent but really include malicious code that can hack or harm a machine. d) Spyware is a type of computer program that can communicate data about a user's online actions to a third party covertly. e) Adware is software that bombards users' devices with intrusive pop-ups or advertising. 3. How may malware be stopped and eliminated? By installing current antivirus and anti-malware software and routinely upgrading applications and operating systems to fix any known vulnerabilities, malware may be avoided. Additionally, reading email attachments and engaging on links from untrusted sources require caution. If malware is found, it should be eliminated as once to limit additional harm. This may be achieved by utilizing anti-malware tools to eliminate any threats found, conducting a thorough system scan using antivirus software, and recovering any damaged or deleted information from backups. In severe situations of malware infestation, professional help may also be required. The key to preventing the pain and devastation that malware might bring about is to prevent a system from becoming infected. Individuals and organizations may avoid malware attacks in several ways, including: a) By employing antivirus and anti-malware software, known malware threats may be found and eliminated before they can infect a machine. b) Keeping operating systems and applications up to date: Security patches that fix identified weaknesses that malware might exploit are frequently included in software updates. c) Being careful while clicking links or opening email attachments: When receiving unwanted emails, it's important to exercise caution since malware can be sent through email attachments or links. d) Using secure passwords: Secure passwords reduce the likelihood of malware infection by making it more difficult for hackers to access a system. To reduce the damage and harm that malware may do, it is crucial to get rid of it as soon as it is found on a system. Depending on the kind of malware and the severity of the infection, unique removal procedures will need to be followed. Generally, the actions listed below can assist in removing malware: a) By disconnecting from the network, you can stop the infection from infecting more networked devices. b) Scan the entire system: Antivirus and anti-malware programs can identify and get rid of known malware threats. c) Using anti-malware programs: Specific eradication tools for some forms of malware may be acquired from reliable sites. d) Restoring from backups: Returning from a backup can assist restore data that has been lost or damaged as a result of infection. It could be required to seek expert help to get rid of the virus and fix the system in serious malware infestation scenarios.