The most common ways to spread malware
There are a few different ways that malware can be spread. Below, we’ll go over some of the most common methods:
1. Through email attachments – This is perhaps the most common way that malware is spread. Cybercriminals will send out phishing emails with malicious attachments. If the user opens the attachment, the malware will be deployed on their system.
2. By downloading infected files from the internet – This is another common way that malware is deployed. Often, users will download pirated software or other files from questionable sources. These files will be infected with malware, which will be installed on the user’s system once they try to open the file.
3. Via malicious websites – Malicious websites can also be used to spread malware. Sometimes, these websites will host malicious ads or pop-ups. If the user clicks on them, they will be redirected to a website that will attempt to install malware on their system.
4. Through infected external devices – External devices such as USB drives can also be used to spread malware. If the user plugs in an infected USB drive, the malware will be automatically installed on their system.
5. By exploits and vulnerabilities – Often, malware is spread by taking advantage of vulnerabilities in a system. For example, an attacker may send a spear phishing email to a user with a link that exploits a vulnerability in their web browser. If the user clicks on the link, the malware will be automatically installed on their system.
These are just a few of the most common ways that malware can be spread. Cybercriminals are constantly coming up with new ways to deploy malware, so it’s important to be cautious and to practice good cyber hygiene in order to protect yourself. Click here to find out more
How the internet of things is increasing the risk of malware
The internet of things (IoT) is a term used to describe the growing network of physical objects and devices that are connected to the internet. This includes everything from smart home devices, like thermostats and alarm systems, to industrial equipment, like machines in a factory.
One of the benefits of the IoT is that it allows devices to share data and communicate with each other. This can make our lives more convenient, for example by automatically reordering groceries when the fridge detects that we are running low.
However, the IoT also creates new opportunities for malware. In the past, malware was typically spread by infecting computers and then using those computers to spread the infection to other computers. However, with the IoT, malware can now spread directly from one device to another.
This is already happening. In 2016, the Mirai malware spread quickly across the internet by infecting IoT devices, like CCTV cameras and routers. This caused a major internet outage and demonstrated how powerful the IoT can be when used for malicious purposes.
The IoT is only going to become more common, and as it does, the risk of malware will continue to increase. IoT manufacturers need to be aware of this risk and take steps to protect their devices from being hijacked and used to spread malware. Consumers also need to be aware of the risks and only purchase IoT devices from reputable manufacturers.
We used malwarezero.org to write this article about malware. Original Article.