Malware

Malware, or malicious software, one of the most well-known virtual attacks, is a program, or code, harmful to technological systems, designed to infiltrate them without your knowledge. The main purpose of this software is to invade, damage or disable computers, systems, networks, devices, taking control of their operations, interfering with their normal functioning.

In addition, another of its goals is to steal, encrypt or erase data, modify or hijack essential computer functions, and even spy on your computer’s activity without user consent. In this way, the extraction of information is carried out for the simple purpose of financial gains.

So, and as a way to understand if your device is under the effect of Malware, we present the main “symptoms” noted:

• Slow machines, namely the speed of the operating system.
• Larger number of ads, stating an unreal offer.
• A virus is downloaded from the moment you click on the pop-up ad. Also, infection warnings may appear, accompanied by these advertisements, prompting the purchase of programs that correct the error.
• Failures or blockages in the system, which consequently translate into the appearance of the blue screen – meaning fatal error.
• There is a mysterious loss of disk space.
• There is an increase in activity on the Internet, without it actually happening.
• The use of system resources and the fan is increased to the maximum.
• Browser changed and extremely slow. As well as new toolbars, extensions or plugins appear, sometimes being directed to sites that you did not intend to visit.
• Antivirus software is inoperable, unable to protect against viruses.
• There are types of Malware – the ransomware – that announces its arrival, hijacks the data and demands a payment for its recovery.
• Problems shutting down or starting the computer.

However, it should be noted that, despite not having any news, it is not a sign that everything is fine, since there are Malwares that do not manifest themselves, hiding and stealing, confidentially, important data and hijacking your computer with malicious intentions.

Malware assumes several types:

Unwanted software that boils down to the appearance of involuntary ads on your computer screen. Often, it disguises itself as legitimate or is accompanied by reliable programs to deceive users into installing malicious software. In other words, Adware gathers information about the victim, personalizes the ad and is installed in exchange for another service, such as the right to use a program without having to pay.

Malware installed on the computer, which secretly observes all activities done without permission, gathering and sending sensitive information to the responsible hacker. It essentially serves to monitor actions in order to steal identity or for the purpose of fraud.

Malware that attaches itself to another program and that, when installed, without the user’s knowledge, modifies some of the computer programs, infecting them.

Similar to the virus, it is malware that replicates itself with the purpose of spreading to other computers, through a network, causing various damages, namely, destruction of data and files, on all machines simultaneously. This does not require user interaction to function, as it often uses security flaws to be able to act.

The well-known Trojan horse is one of the most dangerous malware. It appears as a representation of something useful and harmless, as a way to deceive the user. Once downloaded, it enters the system through unauthorized access and steals financial information or installs threats, blocking devices or even spying on user activities.

Most popular form of Malware that blocks or denies access to the device or encrypts files, then requiring payment for the return of documents. This trail is difficult to follow since payment is generally in cryptocurrency, a quick and profitable payment. Therefore, you must have the confidential documents as properly protected as possible.

Malware that gives the attacker administrator privileges on the system. It is usually out of the user’s visible range.

Type of Malware that records all keystroke movements on the user’s computer, keeping the collected information in order to obtain confidential information.

Malware that uses bugs and other system vulnerabilities in order to take control. It is associated with Malvertising, which consists of camouflaging a trusted website that inadvertently attracts malicious content from a dangerous website. Then, through a “drive-by” download, the malicious content tries to enter the device, only by entering the wrong website.

This type of malware leads the individual to want the device to be infected, usually appearing an alarming phrase on the website, stating the danger that the computer or other device faces, in order to lead victims to acquire a fake antivirus application.

A Botnet is created – a network connected to several infected computers – which provides for data theft, sending spam, among others. It happens when a file is downloaded, allowing, from the start, full control of the device, remotely. Not all bots are malicious, Google uses this software to control data.

How to protect against Malware?

• Keep not only your operating system but the applications you have up to date. In this way, there will be no vulnerabilities in the software, preventing an easy entry by hackers.
• Do not click on links or advertisements in pop-up windows. In addition, after closing this new window, leave the site and choose other sites.
• Only have the necessary applications that you will use regularly on your computer. If you don’t use an application, choose to uninstall it. Have all your devices properly secured.
• Choose to have passwords to make it more difficult to enter devices. If your devices are not under your surveillance, after retrieving them, check the settings and applications to see if anything has changed.
• Avoid clicking on unknown links, either via email or on any website.
• Be selective about the sites you visit, opting for credible links.
• Watch for emails that ask for personal information.
• Try, whenever possible, to determine if the site is trustworthy.
• In order to stay safe, purchase security software, favoring recognized companies, such as ActiveSys.
• Stay true to official websites, the risk of finding Spyware is reduced.
• Before installing an application, view all comments and reviews to understand the credibility of the application.
• If you do not know the contact, telephone or electronic, do not open the message.
• If you are suspicious of the breach of security of the device, request an analysis of it.
• Never insert an unknown USB flash drive into your computer.
• Check your sensitive documents and information regularly.

ActiveSys can help in the security of your devices, through services and products that will serve as a security link. Do not hesitate to ask for help, we are available for you.

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