Malware – also called malicious software – refers to software designed to infect systems, networks, servers and devices, with intention of data theft, spying or sabotage. There are varied ways in which malware attack can be launched – often using suspicious attachments, links, downloads, or through phishing. There are different types of malware, such as trojan horse, worms, viruses and ransomware. In this post, we are discussing further on the different kinds of ransomware and overview of each.

1. This type of malware holds files, data, or systems hostage, and in return, the hacker will demand for a ransom – hence the name. If the ransom is paid, hacker may give a key for decryption, but there is no such assurance in such cases. Ransomware attacks has increased in recent years, and hackers typically look for system flaws to gain access.
2. Trojan works like software or code that may seem desirable to the user. Once installed, it takes control of the system. It can come in varied forms, including via gaming apps and downloads.
3. Worms are used to use system vulnerabilities in favor of the hacker. Once vulnerabilities infect a network, they can cause additional attacks, steal data, or could be related to ransomware.
4. Viruses work by getting attached to an application. When the user runs the application, the virus works by stealing data, can do ransomware attacks, or in many cases, viruses can even cause DDoS attack. It should be noted that viruses are not same as trojans. The latter can work on its own, but viruses cannot work, unless the affected/infected app is being run.
5. True to the name, Keyloggers record/takes data from whatever is types of on the keyboard. These are often used to steal sensitive information like usernames and passwords.
6. File-less malware. There is also something called fileless malware. Such malware doesn’t get downloaded, but comes from programs that are otherwise deemed safe. For instance, it could come from a software that’s recently installed.
7. The last one on our list is adware, which is a type of malware that puts unnecessary ads on the screen. The intention is to get the user to install an app, browser plug-in, or program, which can cause additional damage.

Malware attacks can be prevented with proactive cybersecurity measures. Do your homework and make sure that every networked device is placed behind firewalls. Also, use network segmentation where possible.