The Common Types of Malware and How They Can Affect Your Business

It’s Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and when cybersecurity is mentioned, malware can’t be far behind. Basically, “malware” is short for “malicious software”, which refers to various files attempting to obtain unauthorized access to a system.

Did you know that there are over 350,000 new strains of malware discovered each day? With that level of immense cyberthreat, it’s important to know the types of malware your network could run into.

In the fast-changing cybersecurity landscape, staying safe online and safeguarding your critical business data is an utter necessity. Read along as we discuss the different types of malware and how you can prevent your business from being prey to one.

1. Virus

Viruses are the most common malware. A virus is a malicious software attached to a file that supports macros to execute its code and spread from host to host. Viruses are designed to disrupt a system’s ability to operate, resulting in significant operational issues and data loss.

2. Worm

Worms are programs that replicate themselves and destroys data and files on the computer. Worms corrupt the system operating files and data files until the drive is empty.

3. Trojan

Trojans, coined from the Trojan Horse, cover up as legitimate programs. Trojans are mostly acquired via email or from infected websites. With malicious instructions, Trojans spread by tricking end-users to execute them, making security software useless.

4. Spyware

Spyware runs secretly and reports back to a remote user. It targets sensitive information and can grant remote access to predators. This is frequently used to steal financial or personal information.

5. Adware

Adware displays ads on devices, attempting to expose users to unwanted, potentially malicious advertising. Therese commonly redirects users to look-alike web pages that promote other products.

6. Ransomware

Ransomware is a form of malware that locks the user out of their files or their device, then demands an anonymous online payment to restore access. A ransom note pops up, demanding payment in cryptocurrency for decrypting the files, causing significant business loss.

7. Fileless Malware

This is malware that operates from a user’s computer’s memory, and not from files on the hard drive. This malware disappears when the victim’s computer is rebooted.

To prevent malware, protect your network with multiple layers of security. The most essential tool for this is dependable endpoint protection like Sophos.

Sophos ensures your endpoint protection and firewall are working cohesively together. This means you get better protection against advanced threats and spend less time responding to incidents.

As a business owner, you want to diminish your exposure to malware by taking the necessary cybersecurity measures. Contact us today to learn more about the best IT Security plan for your business.