All about virus, malware, ransomware and other computer threats in Australia

In the rapidly evolving Internet era, cyber threats are becoming more prevalent and dangerous to modern users. The most insidious danger is computer malware. But, unfortunately, not all of you really know the answer to a simple question - what is malware. Today, we will try to research the main types and their features.

Users need to understand what is malware in computers. Such viruses carry a relatively high level of danger. Moreover each malicious program developed by attackers has special properties, unique features, and characteristics. By understanding the principles of their work you will also know how to prevent malware.

The concept of malware

Why is malware dangerous? It is an important question that we need to find the correct answer to. Malware is a general term and is short for malicious software. It is a particular term that refers to various dangerous programs. These include different Trojan horses or simply Trojans, spyware, special worms, viruses, etc. And how does malware work on PCs? Their internal program code is designed to infect gadgets, steal various data, or damage the OS itself and different files it stores. Some types of malware were created to hack into systems, intercept data, and obtain information about the person being attacked. So you now have a better understanding of what is a malware attack and what purpose the attackers have in mind.

Depending on the type, the reason of malware attacks can vary greatly:

• identity theft;
• transaction of money;
• sending spam;
• installing other malware on PCs;
• destruction of information, etc.

Hence, the logical question arises: how to scan for malware or how to delete malware? For this purpose, special protective software is used. These applications and programs are designed for malware definition and further destruction or for moving them to a special quarantine. Therefore, what is anti-malware? It is a special software that can recognize malicious code, detect dangerous and infected files, and neutralize them in various ways. Usually, they are called antivirus. But this is more of a commercial name, as specialized malware attack software can fight far more than just viruses.

Classification of threats according to their main characteristics

You better don’t use free malware protection programs and further you will know why. Unfortunately, the Internet is full of various types of threats that can appear at the most unexpected moment. That's why adequate and reliable protection against them is crucial for safe Internet use today.

We are talking about malware protection, and explaining how different these threats are and how they can harm is essential. The performed malware analysis makes it possible to find their main differences and use a particular classification. There are several main characteristic features.

Habitat of viruses

Computer viruses and other categories of cyber threats can be divided into 4 main categories depending on their habitat. According to this classification feature, the following malware types are distinguished:

• File-based. It is a component of classic malware. When a user opens this file, the infection process is started and the code spreads through the system;
• Macro viruses. The uniqueness of this category of malware is that they are located in tables and also penetrate text editors;
• Bootable. This malware waits for the operating system to start up, after which they penetrates it and starts infecting various sectors;
• Network. Almost every user has encountered them at least once. They get to computers via the Internet. Usually, it happens when downloading some data or visiting dangerous websites.

Even free anti-malware significantly increases your chances of not being hit by dangerous software. But remember, that such software can also be dangerous and infected by viruses. Therefore, you should pay big attention to the recommendations. Install security data software, and remember to update your security applications on time. The programs must know how to recognize new types of threats and react correctly to them when detected. If you install an anti-virus, it will be able to prevent attacks on computer OS and identify malicious code. With more advanced and feature-rich security software, you won't have to worry about trojans, viruses, spyware, fake extensions, etc.

Danger level

Specialists distinguish several categories of threats and malware depending on their level of danger:

• Safe or harmless. They are not capable of negatively affecting any devices, including mobile ones;
• Non-hazardous. Such programs do not affect the operation of the computer but can take away part of the RAM and occupy free space on the hard disk. During the process of functioning of the gadget may be observed small failures;
• Dangerous. Such viruses are capable of causing severe harm and damage to the computer;
• Very dangerous. Their work is aimed at stealing and deleting data, taking away users' money through access to bank money accounts and electronic payment computer systems.

It is wrong to believe that the presence of harmless and non-dangerous programs on the PC can not lead to any negative consequences. The longer a PC or mobile gadget is infected, the worse it performs. Such vulnerabilities open up access to other danger instruments. It eventually leads to severe and dangerous situations.

Infection mechanisms

Another classification feature is the infection mechanism. Here, the following categories are distinguished:

• Overwriting programs. The pest gets into the OS and begins to write its special code inside it;
• Parasites. They can easily change the contents of the infected file, but the performance is preserved. They can embed themselves in different parts of the files;
• Companions. The peculiarity of such threats is that they create doppelganger documents for the affected object, and once they are launched, they can gain access to complete control;
• Links. Such viruses do not change the contents of the file, but when activated, they force OS to execute their codes;
• Worms. When infiltrated, they copy harmful code into directories and then wait for these copies to be run by the user;
• Basic Text Viruses. Such malware's peculiarity is that it can infect source codes and modules in system files.

It is crucial to install special security software to protect personal information. Most modern programs can detect and eliminate threats of special types and levels. The main thing for antivirus or anti-malware is timely updates and the presence of a sufficient number of built-in tools to combat new attacks.

Most common types of modern malware

There is a vast variety of viruses that every modern user should know about. It makes you realize the potential threat they pose and the damage they can do to your system and personal data. Accordingly, you will know the importance of installing reliable, feature-rich, and adequate protection in modern antivirus software.

Adware

Adware products are standard and are a common type of cyber threat. At the same time, not every adware removal successfully copes with its tasks. Why does this happen? Many developers of security special software believe that adware is not something dangerous. After all, the peculiarity of this malware is that it shows users ads and pop-ups when using the browser. It makes the definition of adware difficult, as not all antiviruses have solutions to deal with them.

The problem of adware definition is that the malware can infiltrate quite deeply into the program and use additional modules. As a result they affect the work of the entire browser. To get rid of the unwanted guest and remove adware, you need to use a suitable antivirus solution and reinstall the web browser.

Spyware

Have you heard about Pegasus spyware? This virus made a lot of noise worldwide as it became quite a serious and dangerous development in the world of malware. But what is spyware? According to the classification of cyber threats, spyware belongs to the relatively safe category. That is, they do not cause direct damage to software.

This kind of malware has a different objective - to collect and steal some user information. Therefore, trojan spyware is still considered an unwanted guest on your PC or mobile device. Be sure to use anti-spyware to prevent information leakage. It is a spyware scanner that allows you to search the threat in time and prevent attackers from getting access to credentials, passwords, and some other important information.

Ransomware and Encryptors

The next burning question is, what is ransomware? The ransomware definition is quite simple, as these programs extort some benefits from the victim.

In a dangerous ransomware attack, the user loses access to the screen, system, or certain data. Ransomware programs often lock the screen and demand the victim to pay a ransom. As payment methods often are transactions in Bitcoins (BTC), Ethereum (ETH) or other popular crypto-currency like USD Tether (USDT) required. However some ransomware require the payment in Monero (XMR) - a cryptocurrency with advanced privacy and anonymity features. For each infected computer a separate crypto-wallet is created and the crypto address is provided to the victim to receive the ransom money. Since less customers understand how the cryptocurrencies work, ransomware shows some advice for “How to buy bitcoin” or “how to pay with bitcoin” and similar. As for encryptors, these are also malware that quickly encrypts the victim's data.

In today's world, ransomware protection is of utmost importance as this malware is causing severe damage to ordinary users and large companies. Everyone is actively going digital, so the risks of becoming a ransomware victim are getting higher every day. There are many ransomware examples. But to be objective, CryptoLocker is one of the most popular among all modern examples of ransomware. This unique instrument was at its peak of popularity in 2013-2014. According to some reports, developers managed to earn tens of millions of dollars.

Trojans

Almost every computer user has heard about Trojan programs. As is known, the name is associated with the legend of the special Trojan horse, which was brought as a gift, but armed military men were hiding inside the structure. It is a legendary trick, thanks to which it was possible to capture Troy.

Trojans are considered by many to be the most dangerous. But in reality, this malware is not so awful and has a relatively simple structure. The main task of the tool is to steal some information or destroy it. The malicious tool is not able to harm the PC. However, Trojans can steal personal data, which makes users wary of contacting them.

In some cases, Trojan programs hide more severe and dangerous malware inside them. So, Trojans are a crucial instrument for industrial espionage in today's digital world.

Worms

Even those who don't have a PC or mobile device know that there can be some worms on the PC. It is a parasitic program that is quite dangerous and carries a potential threat.

The main danger is that the worm tends to take over as many devices as possible after infiltrating one computer. It accesses them through the Internet or a local network. Once the worm gains a foothold inside a system, it can cause varying levels of damage: deleting, stealing personal data, and causing the OS to fail. Some worms can even conduct financial transactions without the user's knowledge.

Viruses

The first and most important question is, what are viruses in modern days? A virus is a piece of malicious code. It is inserted into an app, and then the PC is launched. Once the code is inside the network, the virus can easily use it to attack, steal different data, or launch a ransomware program.

Most often, viruses are spread by malicious web-sites, file sharing, and email. The virus may only appear once the user activates the infected apps or files. After that, the active process of spreading throughout the system begins. To combat computer viruses, it is suitable for many modern software solutions. However, it is essential that, at the same time, the protection software receives relevant and timely updates due to the constant emergence of new types of viruses.

Botnets and Bots

These are unique virus programs that are dormant until a certain point. Often, users infected with botnets don't even realize it. But the attackers give a command at some point, and the malware starts acting. It creates the process of attacking gadgets.

As a standalone element, a bot or zombie computer does not pose an increased threat. But attackers usually use an army of bots. Modern botnets can also include hundreds or thousands of computers. IT leads to hackers launching massive attacks and also sending different spam. Infection of computers by bots occurs gradually. When there is enough malware and codes on them, processes are launched to destroy the system.

Keylogger

This type of malicious tool refers to spyware. The algorithm of work is quite simple, but from this, its level of danger is not reduced in any way.

Modern keyloggers are capable of intercepting information that the user enters on their keyboard. It makes it possible to steal sensitive data, gain access to secret passwords, and much more. Therefore, it is crucial to be extremely careful with keyloggers.

Unwanted Programs

Because of these programs, ads, additional toolbars, different pop-ups, and so on may appear on your gadget. Also they have nothing to do with the software you downloaded.

Actual unwanted apps are not always serious malware. Users download such programs voluntarily. Most often, it happens unknowingly or due to trivial inattention.

Usually, unwanted software comes with legitimate applications. Downloading happens because users need to pay attention to the fine print or remember to uncheck some checkboxes during the installation process. So everyone needs to be careful and control every step of the installation to avoid filling your gadget with unwanted software.

Hybrid Malware

Modern hybrid malware is a particular instrument that combines the properties and characteristics of different dangerous solutions. It is often a mix of a Trojan program, some worms, or a classic virus.

The tricky part is that the program may look like a Trojan, but it turns out to be a dangerous network worm when launched. However, modern cybersecurity solutions can recognize such threats and stop them from spreading and causing long-term damage.

Fileless Programs

These malware solutions use legitimate software to quickly infect PCs, laptops or mobile device. The problem is that the threats leave no trace behind. It makes some detecting and also removing the danger on a laptop much more difficult.

Today's cybercriminals increasingly use fileless malware solutions because they take up minimal space and are hard to identify. But even against them, you can find practical and suitable solutions from security software developers.

Logic Bombs

The main feature of a logic bomb is the following - the malware is activated when a specific condition is met. Many modern viruses and special worms are distributed with a built-in logic bomb. Such threats can cause varying levels of damage, from corrupting a few bytes to restricting access to the entire hard disk.

Rootkits

It is a very dangerous type of malicious code; its task is to get into the OS root as deeply as possible. Because of this, the user may lose administrator rights.

Such viruses can hide very well in the system and mask dangerous malicious code. Also, the solution collects large amounts of data about the device and all the processes that occur on it. Modern users need to find and delete them with the help of practical and updated cybersecurity.

Backdoor Viruses

Programs are designed to hack into systems and find vulnerabilities in programs. A hacker can take some advantage of remote access and control a computer remotely through them.

It is difficult to predict exactly how this situation will end. An attacker could steal your data, corrupt your files, install dangerous software, or use your PC to attack other devices.

Exploits

The peculiarity of this solution is that it allows attackers to gain remote access to your PC. Unlike the previous type of threats, exploits do not give access to the control. Therefore, the threat level is lower.

The only problem is that an exploit can bring more dangerous malware into the system. And the serious damage that can be done is hard to predict. So, the best solution is to install an effective and up-to-date cybersecurity instrument.

Script Viruses

Such programs are written in Java. But at the same time, they are pretty dangerous and undesirable. These types of threats are distributed over the Internet. When you open an infected web page, your browser automatically downloads and processes it.

Generally, script viruses are not inherently dangerous. But if a Trojan program or another type of threat is hidden inside them, the damage can be completely different.

Attackers distribute these links to virus sites via messengers and email. That's why it's important to go to trusted and safe websites and use security software that makes browsing the web more secure.

Boot Viruses

The main feature of these malicious instruments is that they operate deep inside the PC system at the level of the boot hard disk. The virus can easily change the startup parameters.

Stealth

The main problem with this threat is that it is really difficult to quickly detect. The level of disguise is very high, so not all protection programs cope with detection.

Stealth is an insidious virus. When the application seems clean, the virus reappears inside it. Therefore, we advise you to use up-to-date versions of cybersecurity solutions to combat such threats.

Hoax

These fake emails are not independent viruses but work as a carrier. You receive emails purportedly from security best software developers. You are urged to share relevant information, open an attachment, or pass it on to other users. In the end, you open a file with an alleged utility for detecting new dangerous viruses. But in reality, malicious code is hidden inside.

False Antivirus

It is a unique development of attackers who offer to take free utilities. They actively work on your PC, perform checks, and even detect and delete some files or apps. That is, they pretend to help and cure your PC.

But the danger is that fake antiviruses begin to gradually download dangerous software to your gadget, perform spamming, show ads, and more. But another problem is that you will need more time to eliminate the program.

Polymorphic viruses

These are some of the most dangerous modern viruses. They are constantly changing, and their structure is modified literally in the process. Therefore, it is pretty difficult to detect and also to delete, and only the best solutions cope with this task.

Some viruses use encryptors to create commands, while the second type can rewrite the program code completely. Therefore, the polymorphic viruses of the second type are considered the most dangerous.

Fake Browser Extensions

These are fake extensions for Internet browsers that simulate help for the user but, in fact, can steal information and cause other harm.

Such programs connect to browsers and change some settings in them. It leads to you ending up on phishing sites and falling to attackers and cybercriminals.

How malware spreads in Australia and New Zealand

There are different ways for malware to spread:

• Emails. It is widespread for attackers to hack into emails by sending viruses and infected attachments to other contacts through the email account of the infected user. By opening the dangerous attachment, link, or app, the virus ends up on their PC;
• Physical media. These are a variety of memory cards, removable hard disks, CDs, DVDs and so on;
• Pop-ups. Such malware is distributed via the Internet with the help of false alerts, advertising banners, and other components. Often, users download fake security software, which, instead of helping, creates additional problems;
• System vulnerabilities. Hackers and special programs detect flaws and vulnerabilities in the OS, through which they then penetrate the system and gain access. That's why we advise you to install modern and feature-rich cybersecurity solutions;
• Backdoors. These are flaws within software, hardware, networks, and security systems through which attackers can bypass defenses;
• Hidden downloads. You may unknowingly download software or install it alongside other secure programs. It is a common technique among cybercriminals.

Hackers and Internet intruders often use a combined approach to accomplish what they want: hack into your system and get hold of the information they need. Therefore, the approach to organizing your protection should be of an appropriate high level.

Basic signs of infection in Australia and APAC

Only some users can immediately realize that a virus or special danger code has appeared on their computer or mobile gadget. But there are several characteristic signs for such situations:

• the computer starts working slowly;
• crashes;
• the PC freezes periodically;
• blue screen appears;
• programs automatically open and close;
• changes in software settings occur without users participation;
• data storage space is significantly reduced;
• the vast number of pop-up windows increases;
• new toolbars appears;
• emails start to be sent without users participation.

You must prevent these situations. The best solution is a complex defense.

How to prevent hacker attacks and virus infiltration in Australia and New Zealand

To help you minimize the risks of viruses and other modern malware infiltration, use a few helpful tips:

• install a good antivirus software solution and use of VPN software;
• perform a full system scan periodically and create backups;
• check external media before using it;
• keep all software up-to-date;
• work with legitimate software eg Microsoft Office and the official version of the OS;
• consider your browser security settings;
• download software only from legitimate websites;
• do not visit suspicious web pages;
• do not open unknown emails and mailings.

Proper online behavior combined with quality cybersecurity solutions will give you excellent protection against all modern malware. Remember that only comprehensive protection and a competent approach to working online will enable you to work safely and effectively.