Malware

Malware is an umbrella term for any software intentionally designed to cause harm, steal data, or compromise system integrity.

Common malware types

• Ransomware: Encrypts data and demands payment for decryption keys.
• Trojans: Disguise as legitimate software to trick users into installation.
• Spyware: Secretly monitors user activity and steals sensitive information.
• Worms: Self-replicating programs that spread across networks without user action.
• Rootkits: Hide deep in the operating system to evade detection.
• Adware: Displays unwanted advertisements and tracks browsing behavior.

Infection vectors

• Phishing emails with malicious attachments or links.
• Drive-by downloads from compromised websites.
• Infected USB drives and removable media.
• Exploiting unpatched software vulnerabilities.
• Social engineering and fraudulent software installers.

How to defend against malware

• Deploy endpoint protection with behavioral detection (EDR/XDR).
• Keep all software and operating systems patched and updated.
• Implement email security with attachment scanning and sandboxing.
• Use application allowlisting for critical systems.
• Train employees to recognize phishing and suspicious downloads.
• Maintain offline, immutable backups for ransomware recovery.
• Segment networks to contain malware spread.