Browsing the Internet allows you to access loads of information, stay entertained, and be connected with your friends, family, and colleagues. However, when you encounter a phishing email, fake installer, or infected attachments, your computer may get infected with malware.

Malware is one of the biggest cyber threats, and it has been used in some of the world’s largest cyberattacks. It hides in your computer folders, while an advanced type can even directly access your operating system. Once installed, your personal information can get compromised, especially when the attackers use the malware to spy on your online activities and steal your sensitive data. They can also use your device to hack other systems.

While it is possible to clean up your computer when it gets infected and completely remove malware from your system, your best defense against potential damage is to prevent becoming a victim in the first place. One way to do this is to stay well-informed with its various types. Here are some of the most common types of malware:

1. Trojans

A Trojan, also known as a Trojan horse, is a program that hides in a computer program. It is commonly used on the victim to gain illegal access to the system and extract, delete, modify, copy, and block sensitive data. It can also disrupt the performance of the target network or computer. It launches attacks and can even establish a backdoor that the attackers can use.

2. Worms

Worms are self-contained programs that replicate themselves across networks and computers. They send a copy of themselves to every contact in the target computer’s email address and conduct malicious activities. They are activated and are usually spread through opened email attachments. When they overload email servers, they can cause denial-of-service attacks against nodes on the network.

3. Adware

Adware is a software application used by businesses to promote their products and services. It can be automatically downloaded to your computer while browsing any website. It can also appear as an advertising banner that can be viewed through a bar that appears on the computer screen or pop-up windows while any program is running.

4. Spyware

Spyware is used to collect information about their target. When your system gets infected with it, all your online activities will be monitored without your knowledge, and the data will be sent to the attacker. It can also install and download other malicious programs from the Internet on your computer.

5. Ransomware

Some businesses or organizations are often targeted by ransomware, especially those that are dealing with sensitive information. The attacker uses it to prevent the victim from accessing their data and threatens to delete or publish it unless they pay a ransom. More advanced ransomware uses a technique known as cryptoviral exertion that encrypts the files in a way that is nearly impossible to recover. The only way to deal with it is to have the decryption key.

Malware attacks can cause serious damage that can slow down your connection or computer, be used to gather information, or give the attacker control over your system. Fortunately, you can protect yourself from them by keeping the information above in mind and reaching out to a trusted organisation like FraudWatch International.  We have been in business for 18 years.

Keep your business and customers protected with brand protection services by FraudWatch International. We also provide anti-phishing protection, cybersecurity awareness training, and more. Contact us to learn more about staying safe while browsing online.