What is malware and how cybercriminals use it

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Malware is a catch-all term for any type of malicious software designed to harm or exploit any programmable device, service or network. Cybercriminals typically use it to extract data that they can leverage over victims for financial gain. That data can range from financial data, to healthcare records, to personal emails and passwords—the possibilities of what sort of information can be compromised have become endless.

Stay safe

Why do cybercriminals use malware?

Malware encompasses all types of malicious software, including viruses, andcybercriminals use it for many reasons,such as:

Trickinga victim into providing personal data for identity theft
Stealingconsumer credit card data or other financial data

Assumingcontrol of multiple computers to launch denial-of-service attacks against other networks
Infectingcomputers and usingthem to mine bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies

How does malware spread?

Since its birth more than 30 years ago, malware has found several methods of attack. They include email attachments, malicious advertisem*nts on popular sites (malvertising), fake software installations, infected USB drives, infected apps, phishing emails and even text messages.

Types of malware?

Unfortunately, there is a lot of malware out there, but understanding the different types of malware is one way to help protect your data and devices:

Viruses

A virus usually comes as anattachmentin an email that holds a virus payload,orthe part ofthemalware that performs the malicious action. Once the victim opens the file, the device is infected.

Ransomware

One of the most profitable, and therefore one of the most popular,types of malwareamongst cybercriminals is ransomware. This malware installs itself onto a victim’s machine, encrypts their files, and then turns around and demands a ransom (usually in Bitcoin) to return that data to the user.

Scareware

Cybercriminals scare us into thinking that our computers or smartphones have become infected toconvincevictimsto purchase a fake application. In a typical scareware scam, you might see an alarming message while browsing the Web that says “Warning: Your computer is infected!” or “You have a virus!”Cybercriminals use theseprograms and unethical advertising practices to frighten users into purchasing rogue applications.

Worms

Wormshave the ability tocopy themselves from machine to machine, usually by exploiting some sort of security weakness in a software or operating system anddon’trequire user interactionto function.

Spyware

Spyware is a program installed on your computer, usually without your explicit knowledge, that captures and transmits personal information or Internet browsing habits and details toitsuser. Spyware enablesits usersto monitor all forms of communications onthe targeted device. Spyware is often used by law enforcement, government agencies and information security organizations to test and monitor communications in a sensitive environment or in an investigation. But spyware is also available to consumers, allowingpurchasersto spy on their spouse, children and employees.

Trojans

Trojans masquerade as harmless applications, tricking users into downloading and using them. Once up and running, they then can steal personal data, crash a device, spy on activities or even launch an attack.

Adware

Adware programs push unwanted advertisem*nts at users and typically display blinking advertisem*nts or pop-up windows when you perform a certain action. Adware programs are often installed in exchange for another service, such as the right to use a program without paying for it.

Filelessmalware

Filelessmalware is a type of malicious software that uses legitimate programs to infect a computer.Filelessmalware registry attacks leave no malware files to scan and no malicious processes to detect. It does not rely on files and leaves no footprint, making it challenging to detect and remove.

How do I know I’ve been infected with malware?

The most common signs that your computer has been compromised by malware are:

Slow computer performance
Browser redirects, orwhenyour web browser takes you to sites you did not intend to visit
Infectionwarnings, frequently accompanied by solicitations to buy something to fix them
Problems shutting down or starting up your computer
Frequent pop-up ads

The more of these common symptoms you see, the higher the likelihood your computer has a malware infection. Browser redirects and large numbers of pop-up warnings claiming you have a virusarethe strongest indicators that your computerhas beencompromised.

How can I protect myself from malware?

Even though there are a lot of types of malware out there, the good news is, there are just as many ways to protect yourself from malware. Check out these top tips:

Protect your devices

Keep your operating system and applications updated. Cybercriminals look for vulnerabilities in old or outdated software, so make sure you install updates as soon as they become available.
Never click on a link in a popup. Simply close the message by clicking on “X” in the upper corner and navigate away from the site that generated it.
Limit thenumberof appson your devices. Only install apps you think you need and will use regularly. And if you no longer use an app, uninstall it.

Use a mobile security solutionlikeMcAfee®Security, available forAndroidandiOS. As malware and adware campaigns continue to infect mobile applications, make sure your mobile devices are prepared for any threat coming theirway.
Don’tlend out your phoneor leave your devices unattendedfor anyreason,andbe sure to checktheirsettings and apps. If your default settings have changed, or a new app has mysteriously appeared, it might be a sign that spyware has been installed.

If you don’t already have comprehensive security protection on all your devices, then try outMcAfee® Total Protection, which protects all your PCs, Macs, tablets and smartphones from online threats while safeguarding your data and identity.

Be careful online

Avoid clicking on unknown links. Whether it comes via email, a social networking site or a text message, if a link seems unfamiliar, keep away from it.
Be selective about which sites you visit. Do your best to only use known and trusted sites, as well as using a safe search plug-in likeMcAfee®WebAdvisor, to avoid any sites that may be malicious without your knowing.
Beware of emailsrequesting personal information. If an email appears to come from your bankand instructs you to click a link and reset your password or access your account, don't click it. Go directly to your online banking site and log in there.
Avoid risky websites, such as those offering free screensavers.

Pay attention to downloadsand other software purchases

Only purchase security software from a reputable company via their official website or in a retail store.
Stick to official app stores. While spyware can be found on official app stores, they thrive on obscure third-party stores promoting unofficial apps. By downloading apps for jailbroken or rooted devices, you bypass built-in security and essentially place your device’s data into the hands of a stranger.
When looking for your next favorite app, make sure you only download something that checks out. Read app reviews, utilize only official app stores,and if something comes off as remotely fishy, steer clear.
Do not open an email attachment unless you know what it is, even if it came from a friend or someone you know.

Perform regular checks

If you are concerned that your device may be infected, run a scan using the security software you have installed on your device.
Check your bank accounts and credit reports regularly.

With these tips and some reliable security software, you’ll be well on your way to protecting your data and devicesfrom all kinds of malware.

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What is malware and how cybercriminals use it | McAfee (2024)

Why do cybercriminals use malware?

How does malware spread?

Types of malware?

How do I know I’ve been infected with malware?

How can I protect myself from malware?