Malware, short for malicious software, is an umbrella term for many types of computer programs created to disrupt or exploit a network, device, or service. This includes a wide array of cyberattacks like computer viruses, ransomware, and spyware. Malware is designed to gain unauthorized access to a computer or network, disrupt business operations, or damage data and systems. Attackers use malware to distribute malicious code, or “payload,” via a link or file over email.
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Malware can be categorized based on how the malicious software spreads. According to this categorization, there are three basic malware categories:
This malware is designed to follow what the user is doing by spying and collecting data on the activity of the user’s computer, sending this information to a third party (e.g., keystrokes). This malware runs in the background undetected, collecting credit card details, authorization credentials, and other sensitive data. When the spyware specifically records the keystrokes, it is called a keylogger.
This malware directs the victims’ web browser to fake advertisements, often in popup windows, which then are used to download malicious software. Adware usually attaches itself to “free download” programs like games or browser extensions.
In this attack, cybercriminals lock out users until the victim pays a ransom. Sometimes attackers encrypt your files, demanding payment for sending the decryption key. Ransomware attacks are often executed as part of phishing scams and social engineering attacks and target large organizations.
In this type of attack, instead of using one software, attackers use a group of software tools to gain remote access and control a network or system. These tools are installed at the root (administrator level).
This method infects legitimate ads or ad networks to deliver malware to users’ computers. Passing malware as a legitimate ad on a website, an attacker lures the user into clicking on it. The code then redirects them to a malicious website or directly installs malware on their computer.
Here, attackers force your computer to supply them with cryptocurrency without you knowing. They install a crypto-mining malware that infects the computer, using the CPU to mine bitcoin for your attacker.
This is a trick made to look like ransomware. In it, a criminal sends a warning or alarming message to the user’s browser. This message tricks the user into thinking their computer has been infected and they need to download a fake antivirus or application to protect it. In other versions of scareware, the criminal uses redirect links to show the user their files are encrypted or they’re locked out of their system, then demands a ransom to recover access.
Preventing malware requires constant vigilance by users—and installing the right protection tools. User vigilance is key to ensure that emotion, such as fear, does not lead to risk. Attackers can trick an employee into installing a fake antivirus by sending a scary message telling them, “Your computer has been infected.” Another can be lured into downloading a “useful browser extension.” Protecting against malware involves maintaining good security hygiene and best practices, along with protection tools. There are several tried and tested tips for securing networks and systems:
Malicious actors are constantly updating their attack methods. Thus, systems need to be up-to-date to withstand new attack vectors. To strengthen endpoints so they can reject malicious intruders, it’s important to review and patch them promptly and often. That way, the business can ensure there are no hidden vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit in operating systems and applications.
The first line of defense is user awareness. Organizations should educate staff and end users on risk areas like password security, how to use multi-factor authentication, and identifying the signs of a potential attack. Another common way for attackers to spread malware is through email. Businesses should educate users on how to spot suspicious emails and not to click suspicious email attachments. Instead, attachments should be scanned before being opened, which can prevent a malware infection from spreading. In case of doubt, users can forward the email or file to IT security before opening it.
Attractive free apps are one of the favorite ways for attackers to install malware on a system or computer. Most devices have more apps installed than are actually used. Reducing the number of applications and ensuring users install only what is needed is a way to protect against malware that may be lurking in idle apps. Unused software is seldom updated or patched, and sometimes people may even forget that an application is installed. This creates an ideal environment for an attacker to exploit vulnerabilities by using an idle app to enter the system. A secure workspace that controls all applications under a unified environment helps to keep application security tight.
Anti-malware software monitors systems to detect malicious activity before it becomes a problem. Security tools like antivirus and firewalls can identify malware and stop it in its tracks by detecting known signatures. Endpoint security tools provide an additional layer of protection for mobile device management.
Backups are a basic measure for protecting sensitive information from malware attacks and other cyberattacks. Users should not only regularly update their backups, but also store the records in multiple locations to ensure redundancy and eliminate the risk of having to pay a ransom if a hard drive is compromised. This protects files from attacks and other disasters. Cloud backups can also be a good option for storing sensitive data.
Sometimes, a slow device can be an indication of an infected computer—particularly if the system is acting differently and various applications don’t interact as smoothly as before. But how can the user detect if there’s malware? Even if malware protection is installed, new attack vectors are being created all the time—ones that can slip past existing defenses.
There are several signs that could indicate a computer has been infected by malware:
Corporate network security tools, such as intrusion detection or threat detection systems, pick up signs of malware infection that may otherwise be missed.
Citrix security solutions, including Citrix Secure Private Access and Citrix Enterprise Browser, protect data across mobile devices, personal computers, desktops, laptops, tablets, and mobiles from wherever the user connects, at the application level. This zero trust network access approach enables organizations to isolate corporate data, applications, and networks by securing access and browser services.
