This blog defines malware and reviews five of the most common malware types that cybercriminals use. The five malware variants covered include: worms, viruses, mobile malware, spyware, and ransomware.
Blog Post
8 minute read
Apr 25, 2024
The global cost of cybercrime is expected to reach $13.82 billion by 2028. While this is a staggering number, it’s important to realize the size and scope of the cybercrime market. Not all cyberattacks make use of the same type of malicious code or malware, nor do they rely on the same tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTP).
Understanding how to identify the various types of malware that exist, and how each of them operates, will help your cybersecurity team keep your organization safe with a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy capable of handling any threat.
Out of the abundance of malware that exists, we’re going to focus on these five extremely common types of malware:
Just like software, malware is a bit of an umbrella term that includes a wide variety of different programs that are built with malicious code specifically designed to cause harm to the user or system it infects.
The exact type of damage that the malware causes will depend on a few factors including, the threat actor’s intent, the specific type of malware that is installed, and the maturity of the cybersecurity strategy of the target. For instance, the same piece of malware may cause severe damage to an unprepared organization, whereas an organization with advanced threat detection in place, may be able to neutralize the threat before it causes any damage at all.
This is why it’s important to view cybersecurity as an investment in the future of your organization that protects you from incidents that would otherwise dismantle operations and wreak financial havoc.
1. Worms
Worms are a type of malware that spreads across computer networks and systems, often without requiring any user action. They exploit vulnerabilities in network protocols or operating systems to propagate themselves. Because they target vulnerable systems, worms do not need to attach themselves to host programs or files to spread.
Once inside a network or system, worms can cause various disruptions, including consuming network bandwidth, degrading system performance, and compromising data integrity. Worms can also carry payloads that execute malicious activities such as data theft, espionage, or launching distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks.
Due to their self-replicating nature and ability to rapidly spread, worms pose a significant threat to both individual users and organizations. Preventive measures against worms include keeping systems updated with security patches, using next-generation firewalls to block unauthorized network traffic, and deploying next-gen antivirus software to detect and remove worm infections.
2. Viruses
Viruses are malicious programs that infect other files or software by attaching themselves and using them as a host. They often spread through various vectors, including email attachments, infected websites, or removable storage devices, like a USB.
Once a virus infiltrates a system, it begins executing its designed tasks, which may include deleting files, corrupting data, or stealing sensitive information. Viruses can also replicate themselves and spread to other files on the infected system, as well as to other systems connected to the same network.
The full impact of a virus infection can range from mild user inconvenience to severe data loss, system damage, and operational disruptions. Antivirus software is commonly used to detect and remove viruses from infected systems, along with employee training to recognize and avoid potential malware baits such as suspicious email attachments or links.
3. Mobile Malware
Mobile malware refers to malicious software specifically designed to target mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. With the widespread adoption of mobile technology, mobile malware has become an increasingly prevalent threat.
Mobile malware can take various forms, including viruses, Trojans, and spyware. Most commonly, this type of malware spreads through malicious apps downloaded from unofficial app stores, phishing attacks via email or text messages, or from visiting compromised websites.
Once installed, mobile malware can steal sensitive information, track the user's location, display unwanted advertisements, or even take control of the device remotely. This makes a mobile device policy critical for any company devices that helps users avoid accidentally downloading malware.
Individual users can also protect themselves against mobile malware by only downloading apps from reputable app stores, keeping their devices updated with the latest security patches, and using security software that can detect and remove mobile malware infections.
4. Spyware
Spyware is a type of malicious software designed to monitor and gather information about a user's activities on any given device. Unlike viruses or worms, which aim to cause direct harm to the system, spyware operates under the radar, aiming to remain undetected.
It’s also important to note that spyware can take many forms, including keyloggers, screen recorders, webcam hijackers, and browser hijackers, all of which work a little differently.
Keyloggers record the keystrokes typed by the user, allowing attackers to capture passwords, credit card numbers, and other sensitive information.
Screen recorders capture screenshots of the user's activities, including browsing history, chat conversations, and online transactions.
Webcam hijackers can secretly activate the device's webcam to spy on the user and record video footage without their knowledge.
Browser hijackers alter the settings of the user's web browser, redirecting them to malicious websites or displaying unwanted advertisements.
Spyware, like other types of malware is typically distributed through deceptive software downloads, email attachments, or malicious websites.
Once installed on a system, spyware operates silently in the background, continuously collecting and transmitting data to remote servers controlled by the attackers. This stolen information can be used for various malicious purposes, including identity theft, financial fraud, blackmail, and other forms of extortion.
Because spyware is designed to go unnoticed, you need to install a layered cybersecurity strategy that includes robust detection and response measures that improve your ability to pinpoint threats in your system before isolating and subsequently neutralizing.
5. Ransomware
Ransomware is a type of malware that is often front and center in major cybersecurity headlines.
Ransomware encrypts the files on a victim's computer or mobile device, rendering them inaccessible, and then demands payment (a "ransom") in exchange for the decryption key needed to restore access. This is typically accompanied by both a deadline and a threat to sell the stolen data to the highest bidder if the ransom isn’t met.
This puts organizations without existing remediation plans between a rock and a hard place, as they will have to decide if they want to deal with extended downtime and severe operational disruptions, or a costly ransom payment in hopes of system restoration.
To make matters worse, even if the ransom is paid, there is no guarantee that the attackers will provide the decryption key or that the decryption process will be successful.
The consequences of a full-fledged ransomware attack can be devastating. Victims may face significant financial losses, substantial operational disruptions, reputational damage, and can even face legal ramifications all as a result of a ransomware infection.
Wrapping Up on Malware Variants
While there are many different types of malware, the majority of programs with malicious code can be mitigated with a layered cybersecurity strategy that makes use of multiple security measures such as:
Regular Data Backups: Maintain up-to-date backups of important files and data on offline or cloud storage platforms. This allows victims to restore their files without paying the ransom.
Robust Cybersecurity Practices: Implement strong security measures, such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and network segmentation, to detect and block ransomware attacks before they can infiltrate the system.
User Education: Educate users about the dangers of phishing emails, malicious websites, and suspicious software downloads. Encourage them to exercise caution when interacting with unfamiliar or unsolicited content.
Security Software: Deploy reputable antivirus programs and anti-ransomware tools to detect and mitigate ransomware infections. Ensure that security software is regularly updated to defend against emerging threats.
Incident Response Plan: Develop and test an incident response plan to effectively respond to ransomware attacks. This plan should include procedures for containing the infection, restoring data from backups, and communicating with stakeholders.
By implementing these preventative measures, organizations can strengthen their defenses against most malware and minimize the risk of falling victim to these disruptive and damaging attacks.
