How Does Malware Get Onto Our Devices Undetected?
Dec 20, 2021
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Our modern world is filled to the brim with technology. We’re seeing advancements every day and new technological marvels are being developed quickly. This is great for those who see a better quality of life and instant gratification.
As much as technology has made our lives easier though, there are some important dangers that simply cannot be overlooked. One of these dangers is malicious software that can destroy our devices and infiltrate our privacy.
Malware can be installed without us knowing, which is a scary thought that most people overlook. Your device could be riddled with malicious software that you don’t even know about. Read on to find out more about malware and how you can protect yourself from it.
What is Malware?
Malware is also known as malicious software. It is a type of software that is developed by cybercriminals to damage your device or something that is stored on your device. Cyberattacks that involve malware are becoming more common, and the frequency of attacks is on the rise. There are different types of malware that you need to be aware of. Below is a list of the most common types of malware that you could come across.
- Spyware - this is yet another dangerous form of malware that will risk your privacy and security. Spyware is able to track your data and browser history. This would allow a cybercriminal to monitor what you do on your device. In some cases, they could also get hold of your login credentials which could put all of your accounts at risk.
- Viruses - these are some of the most common forms of malware. However, there are different types of viruses, each with its own objective in mind. All of them are dangerous though, and they can destroy anything on your device from files to the entire operating system. Some viruses can clone themselves or hide from antivirus software, which makes them difficult to remove from your device. One of the main signs that you have a virus on your device is if it begins acting up. If your device suddenly becomes slower or begins to freeze with no explanation it could be a sign that a virus has made its way onto your device.
- Ransomware - ransomware is the most dangerous form of malware that you can find on your device. This malware has caused billions of dollars in damage in the past year alone. Ransomware is able to encrypt important files or accounts. This means that you won’t be able to access any of them until the encryption is removed. The only way to remove the encryption is to pay the ransom fee to cybercriminals.
If any of the above types of malware are installed on your device it could be at serious risk. You should be taking the necessary precautions to prevent malicious software from putting your devices at risk.
How Can Cybercriminals Install Malware on Our Devices?
The main tactic that is used by cybercriminals is phishing. Phishing has been a popular method used by cybercriminals in the past. However, with the development in technology and a surge of internet users, hackers have developed their techniques in recent years to become more effective.
Phishing is when cybercriminals send fraudulent emails to potential victims. The emails will contain links or attachments, and the victim will be urged to interact with them. However, once the user interacts with one of these attachments or links, malicious software will be installed on their device.
The emails could also urge the victim to follow a link to a fake website that has been set up by the hackers. The website will be equipped with a keylogger that can copy everything that the victim types into the website. This gives the hacker complete access to all of the victim’s information.
Cybercriminals use social engineering to trick their victims into interacting with their emails. They do this by posing as a company that you know and trust. For example, a phishing scam that is currently trending involves the cybercriminals posing as Netflix. The email will have the Netflix logo and colour scheme which makes it look legitimate. The email will tell the victim that they must follow a link to update their billing information or their account will be suspended. However, the link takes the victim to a fake website that has a keylogger installed on it, which copies all the information that is typed into the website straight to the hacker’s device.
What is The Best Form of Defence Against Malware?
There are several different types of cybersecurity measures on the market that you can use. However, the best option is premium antivirus software. Antivirus software will constantly scan your devcie for any malicious software, and it will take action to remove it from your device as well.
It is important that you ensure that your antivirus software is always kept up to date. Software updates are regularly sent out by developers to ensure that there are no flaws in the software. They are also used to add extra layers of defence against new tactics that are used by cybercriminals.
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