Malware Types: How to Protect Yourself from Malicious Software

Malware is a generic term used to describe any type of malicious software or code that can cause damage to a computer or network.

When it first came out, malware was often referred to as a “virus”, but that term has come to refer to a specific type of malware that infects computers.

On this page, we’ll describe some of the most common types of malware that you might come across.

By the end, you’ll understand the different types of malware, how you can protect yourself against malware attacks, and how to report malware to your organization.

The History of Malware: a Brief Overview

Malware first originated in the late 1980s, which might seem hard to believe for some. Granted, the first iterations of malware were not nearly as sinister as what we know today, and most infections had to be carried out via floppy disk. 

However, the enormous expansion of computer networks throughout the nineties gave rise to an easier way for malware to spread. This led to rapidly evolving viruses that could leap between devices easily, provided the hacker knew what they were doing.

Fast forward a couple of decades and now the internet is littered with malware as far as the digital eye can see. There are numerous varieties to watch out for, and education is half the battle. That’s why we have compiled a list of some of the most common for you to review. Let’s begin. 

What is Mobile Malware?

As its name probably gives away, mobile malware is specifically designed to target your smartphone. They have also been known to infect other mobile devices too, such as tablets. The predominant goal of mobile malware is to gain access to your private data.

Mobile malware isn’t as big of a threat to businesses as other kinds due to how few corporations provide their employees with smartphones. 

However, mobile malware can spread if a personal smartphone is connected to the corporate network. Make sure your employees know that if they use their phone on the business wi-fi that they need to be wary of opening any links or attachments.  

What is Petya Malware?

Petya specifically targets Windows operating systems via a vulnerability known as CVE-2017-0144, exploiting how Microsoft implements the Server Message Block protocol. If that sounds like a lot of jargon, all you need to know is that it swiftly encrypts numerous files so you can no longer access them. 

It achieves this by prompting the user to perform a system reboot. Unfortunately, if the user complies, they will then be unable to access their system at all. Additionally, your system will no longer be able to locate files at all. This categorizes Petya as a ‘wiper’ malware, which we will discuss in more detail further below. 

What is Spyware Malware?

Similar to malware and ransomware, spyware is also a portmanteau. It is comprised of ‘spy’ and ‘software’, which pretty much explains exactly what it does. It observes, collects, and logs the activity of the device user without their knowledge or consent. 

This can be used to harvest private information such as passwords, payment information, and personal identification numbers. In some cases it can also be used for blackmail purposes, forcing the user to pay the hacker in exchange for not releasing private data.

Spyware is the most common malware to infect desktops, which is why so many antivirus software providers make a point of claiming they can stop it in its tracks. Recently, Spyware has started to find its way onto smartphones as well. This coincides with an increase in online banking from phones, and hackers are tapping into it. 

What is Fileless Malware?

Fileless malware gets its name due to the fact that it does not usually introduce new files to your device carrying a virus. Instead, the malware utilizes aspects of the existing system to turn it on itself, executing a cyber attack without the user having clicked on any links or downloaded any obscure attachments. 

Essentially, you don’t have to install any code for Fileless malware to take hold of your system. For this reason, it is one of the more dangerous forms of malware. It is often installed via stolen credentials, hijacked native tools, or exploit kits. 

What is Wiper Malware?

Remember how we mentioned wipers in our explanation of Petya malware? Wiper malware, rather than being a specific type of virus, actually categorizes a whole host of cyberattacks that share the same results.

As their name suggests, wiper malware viruses seek to overwrite or outright destroy data on your device. They are entirely destructive in nature and are not generally used with any monetary gain in mind. They are sometimes used out of malice, for revenge, or to cover the tracks of previous criminal activity. 

What is Trojan Malware?

Named after the famous Trojan Horse, Trojan malware utilizes a similar tactic by concealing itself within legitimate code or desirable software. Once your system has been compromised, a hacker can use your device and access your files entirely remotely. 

This is often done with the intention of stealing private data or blackmailing the original user, though motivations vary. Unlike other forms of malware, Trojan must be manually operated by the hacker. It cannot self-execute like worms or viruses often can. 

Is Ransomware a Type of Malware?

Yes. It is used to seize control of a device or entire network of devices and then demand a ransom in exchange for access to be restored. It is strongly recommended by law enforcement that you do not engage with this ransom, as there is no guarantee the hacker will honor their part of the bargain.

When it comes to business or certain private information, however, desperation can get the better of people, which is why ransomware remains a popular form of attack for many hackers. Billions of dollars are paid to cybercriminals every year through ransomware attacks. 

Why are There so Many Kinds of Malware?

Simply put, it’s because hackers and cybercriminals are constantly looking for new ways to scam people out of money and information. This constant innovation means new forms of malware are being developed every single day, with no sign of slowing down.

As hackers continue to increase their arsenal of weapons, antivirus software and operating systems continue to get smarter too. However, this constant race between hackers and software developers actually fuels the fire for more malware to be developed in response. It is a vicious cycle, all encouraged by our increasingly digital world. 

How Dangerous is Malware?

It is easy to underestimate how ruinous malware can be both for your personal and professional devices. Granted, malware can’t physically harm either you or your computer, but it can wreak havoc in many other ways.

We don’t say this to alarm you, but rather to warn you and encourage you to take protective measures against possible future attacks. Identity theft, blackmailing, and the catastrophic loss of key data are just some of the ways malware can prove harmful. 

Stay Protected!

Malware continues to innovate and evolve as hackers search for new ways to scam unsuspecting victims. If you don’t take the precautions to protect yourself, and your business, then you could fall victim. 

Keep your systems updated, invest in quality antivirus software, and stay alert. Only click on links you trust, and never download suspicious attachments. Malware is harmful, but there are steps you can take to stay safe.