Types of Computer Malware
- Computer Viruses
A computer virus is small infectious and destructive software that can replicate itself and go on to infect other computers. A computer virus is usually executable software. Computer viruses can be contacted through downloads and various mode of email and instant messaging attachments. A virus then attaches itself to existing programs on the target computer. The main aim is to corrupt the computer system. Computer viruses can be removed by installing and running antivirus or antimalware programs.
- Worms
Similar to a computer virus, worms are infectious and self-replicating. However, Computer worms work with computer networks. The worm utilizes a computer network to send replicas of itself to connecting computes on that network. Computer worms can replicate in create volume and it poses a great threat to large computer networks. Computer worms can be removed using malware removal tools.
- Trojan horse
A Trojan or a Trojan horse is a form of computer malware that can be installed on a computer system through deceptive means. The Trojan is presented to the user as a form of a free useful software or add-on. However, once installed, the Trojan horse gives access to hackers, who can then carry out their criminal operations on the target computer from a remote station. Trojan horses can be removed either manually or by using antivirus software programs. - Spyware
Spyware is a form of malware program installed secretly on a computer system that collects and sends information about its usage and other confidential and personal data to the developer in an unethical manner. A computer system can get infected with spyware through deceptive ways such as free online scanning, Internet add-ons or plugins, dubious websites and images or even through a search engine. Spyware can be removed using antispyware removal tools.
- Adware
Adware is short for Advertisement-supported software. The program is designed to display advertisements on a computer system. However, some adware are dishonest and therefore can be classified as spyware – because that is what it does – spy on the computer user and also steal user sensitive information. Adware can also be removed using trusted spyware or malware removal tools.
- Crimeware
Crimeware is a form of malware created specifically to perpetrate crime on the Internet. The main aim of crimeware is to steal financial and confidential information such as credit card data and passwords and use this to access private online bank accounts or financial services – identity theft. Crimeware can be installed through social engineering and tricky manipulation of people which leads them to release their confidential information. This malware can also be installed through vulnerabilities in software applications or email attachments.
- Keyloggers
Keyloggers are created to monitor user keystrokes and the information are logged and reported to the person or organization who installed them. Keyloggers may be used by organizations to monitor workers or employees activities. Keyloggers can also be used as a form of spyware to steal confidential information and commit identity theft.
- Hijackers
Hijacker is a form of malware that changes the browser setting of the user’s computer and redirected to of the developers choice. The user is usually redirected to start pages and search pages for paid advertising. Hijackers may slow the computer and cause the browser to crash.
- Rogue Security Software
Rogue security software is a form of malware that manipulates and scare people into buying a full version of fake application software. The fake software displays bogus scan reports and alerts, which are actually simulated to trick the user. The program takes over the whole computer system to prevent removal and in most cases block other applications including legitimate anti-malware programs from running.
