Malware: - (Malicious Software)
Malware refers to software programs designed to damage or do
other unwanted actions on a computer system. In Spanish, "mal" is a
prefix that means "bad," making the term "badware," which
is a good way to remember it
Common examples of malware include
viruses
worms
Trojan horses
spyware
Dialer
Root kit
What is the full form of VIRUS ?
Virus –
Vital Information Resources Under Seize
A computer virus is a computer program that can replicate
itself and spread from one computer to another without your knowledge and runs
against your wishes.
Effects of Virus:-
1) It can quickly use all available memory and bring the
system to a halt.
2) It can result in Modification of data
3) It can erase your complete Hard drive
4) It can show annoying messages on your computer screen.
Worm:-
A worm is similar to a virus by design and is considered to
be a sub-class of a virus. Worms spread from computer to computer, but unlike a
virus, it has the capability to travel without any human action. A worm takes
advantage of file or information transport features on your system
The biggest danger with a worm is its capability to
replicate itself on your system, so rather than your computer sending out a
single worm, it could send out hundreds or thousands of copies of itself,
creating a huge devastating effect. One example would be for a worm to send a
copy of itself to everyone listed in your e-mail address book. Then, the worm
replicates and sends itself out to everyone listed in each of the receiver's
address book
Trojan Horses :-
A Trojan horse, or Trojan, is a non-self-replicating type of
malware which appears to perform a desirable function but instead drops a
malicious payload, often including a backdoor allowing unauthorized access to the
target's computer. These backdoors tend to be invisible to average users.
There are two main differences between Trojans and viruses
or worms. Trojans can't replicate themselves or spread independently, as both
viruses and worms do, and they are always created with malicious intent, while
viruses and worms are sometimes benign or accidental.
Types of Trojan
• Remote Access Trojans
• Data Sending Trojans
• Destructive Trojans
• Proxy Trojans
• FTP Trojans
• security software disabler Trojans
• denial-of-service attack (DoS) Trojans
Effects of Trojan :-
sending spam to your friend using YOUR mail
slow (or freeze) down the computer
might get it to crash and stop working.
Spyware :-
Spyware is usually software that is installed without the
computer user’s knowledge or consent. This type of malware sends and receives
information when the computer is online. This is usually poorly written
software that will make a computer system malfunction. Spyware can also gather
personal information that can include passwords and credit card information.
One of the greatest threats that spyware brings is viruses, worms, or Trojans.
How to Avoid Getting a Computer
Malware on Your Windows PC
Never click on a link or attachment in an email that you are
not positive is from a trusted source
Be wary of files with a double extension such as .txt.vb or
.jpg.exe.
Use USB drives with caution.
Beware of internet pop-ups.
Beware of unusual emails from companies you do business
with.
Install an anti-virus program.
Install an anti-spyware program.
Use a firewall
Set up your Windows Update to automatically download patches
and upgrades.
Consider switching to a different web browser
