Malware
What is malware and how can we prevent it?
Malware is an abbreviated form of “malicious software.” This is software that is specifically designed to gain access to or damage a computer, usually without the knowledge of the owner. There are various types of malware, including spyware, ransomware, viruses, worms, Trojan horses, adware, or any type of malicious code that infiltrates a computer.
Generally, software is considered malware based on the intent of the creator rather than its actual features. Malware creation is on the rise due to money that can be made through organized Internet crime. Originally malware was created for experiments and pranks, but eventually it was used for vandalism and destruction of targeted machines. Today, much of malware is created to make a profit from forced advertising (adware), stealing sensitive information (spyware), spreading email spam or child pornography (zombie computers), or extorting money (ransomware).
Various factors can make computers more vulnerable to malware attacks, including defects in the operating system (OS) design, all of the computers on a network running the same OS, giving users too many permissions, or just because a computer runs on a particular operating system, such as Windows, for example.
The best protection from malware — whether ransomware, bots, browser hijackers, or other malicious software — continues to be the usual, preventive advice: be careful about what email attachments you open, be cautious when surfing by staying away from suspicious websites, and install and maintain an updated, quality antivirus program.
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5 ways you didn't know you could get a virus, malware, or your social account hacked
Read MoreOctober is National Cyber Security Awareness month. This is part 1 in a series of blog posts we will be publishing on various topics aimed at educating you on how to stay protected on todays Internet...
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7 tips to prevent ransomware
Read MoreMalicious software that uses encryption to hold data for ransom has become wildly successful over the last few years. The purpose of this software is to extort money from the victims with promises of restoring encrypted data.
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Android malware
Read MoreThe security argument between Apple’s iOS and Google’s Android system for smartphones is heating up yet again.
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Apple cyber security predictions for 2017
Read MoreThe Apple threat landscape was extremely busy in 2016. We reported on seven major stories in 2016.
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Cybercrime rings: Gameover Zeus
Read MoreThis week the UK National Crime Agency and the FBI, working with Symantec and other partners, were able to significantly disrupt two cybercrime operations: Gameover Zeus botnet and Cryptolocker ransomware network…
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Destructive malware
Read MoreReuters has reported that the Federal Bureau of Investigation has warned businesses about destructive malware attacks in the US. These attacks appear to cause damage to data on a computer's hard drives, preventing the…
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Do Macs get viruses and malware?
Read MoreA macro virus is a computer virus written in the same macro language that is used for software applications, such as word processors.
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Everything you need to know about macro viruses
Read MoreA macro virus is a computer virus written in the same macro language that is used for software applications, such as word processors.
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How Norton keeps you shaded from silent but deadly threats
Read MoreOn May 19th, 2014 Blackshades made news headlines when the FBI and Europol announced (link is external) that they had arrested dozens of individuals suspected of cybercriminal activity centered around the malware.
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How can I tell if I have malware and what can I do about it?
Read MoreMalware has become a catchall term for various types of cyber security risks, such as viruses, Trojan horses, worms, adware, ransomware and spyware. Many of us use these terms interchangeably to...
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How to remove malware from Android phones
Read MoreIs my Android device infected by malware? How can I remove it? Here is some useful information that may help answer your questions.
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How to remove malware from your PC or Mac
Read MoreCybercriminals use malware to steal passwords, credit card info and more for profit. Learn how to remove malware with this guide.
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How to secure your webcam and help prevent webcam hacking
Read MoreHow to secure your webcam and help prevent webcam hacking
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Malware 101: How do I get malware? Complex attacks
Read MoreIn other posts, we’ve explained the different types of malware on the threat landscape, and some of the less complicated ways your computer can become infected with malware. In this article we’ll talk about…
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Malware 101: How do I get malware? Simple attacks
Read MoreWe’ve previously explained the different types of malware that are prevalent on the threat landscape, which begs the question: How does malware get onto my computer?
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OS X malware
Read MoreOnline threats to Macs have increased lately. The most recent one to make news, called “Crisis”, targets Mac users. Your risk of infection is probably very low, but here are some basic facts: “Crisis” is a Trojan that…
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PC or Mac: Which is more resistant to cyber threats?
Read MoreCyber criminals are not run-of-the-mill street hooligans. Assailants of online crimes are educated, tech-savvy, sophisticated individuals who don’t care if you prefer PC to Mac or vice versa.
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Pi Day cybersecurity by the numbers
Read MoreToday is Pi Day! This day is celebrated around the world to commemorate Pi, which is approximately 3.14159, and takes place on March 14. For our fellow number nerds out there here is a look at cybercrime by the numbers.
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Ransomware and the importance of backing up
Read MorePoll How often should you back upyour devices? When I am prompted to. Incorrect. By then, it may be too late! Ransomware can strike anywhere, anytime. Once a month. Incorrect. Good news though, you...
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Safely and securely use memory sticks
Read MoreYou may have noticed growing reports in the media about the dangers of using USB memory sticks. It is true, they are susceptible to being exploited like everything else…
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The worm in the Apple, Part 1: Why Mac users are not immune from viruses and malware
Read MoreA few years ago, I worked in an Apple Store Genius Bar. The first thing that caught my attention was the number of customers coming in with malware issues. If I had a nickel for every time I heard...
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What are bots?
Read MoreBots, or Internet robots, are also known as spiders, crawlers, and web bots. While they may be utilized to perform repetitive jobs, such as indexing a search engine, they often come in the form of...
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What are browser hijackers?
Read MoreA browser hijacker is defined as a form of unwanted software that modifies a web browsers settings without the users permission. The result is the placement of unwanted advertising into the...
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What are malicious websites?
Read MoreMost people don't know that you don’t have to intentionally download a malicious attachment to compromise your computer’s security.
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What is a Trojan? Is it a virus or is it malware?
Read MoreWhether you call it Trojan malware or a Trojan virus, it’s malicious code. Here’s what you need to know.
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What is a botnet?
Read MoreThe Internet is filled with threats to online security. Many of these threats are just productive, positive technologies turned to evil use. The botnet is an example of using good technologies for bad intentions.
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What is a computer worm, and how does it work?
Read MoreA computer worm is a type of malicious software that spreads copies of itself from computer to computer.
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What is cryptojacking? How it works and how to help prevent it
Read MoreCryptojacking is the unauthorized use of your computer and devices by cybercriminals in order to mine for cryptocurrency.
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What is cyber security? What you need to know
Read MoreCyber security is the state or process of protecting networks, devices, and programs from any type of cyberattack. Cyber security starts with users having good cyberthreat defense education.
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What is ransomware?
Read MoreRansomware is a form of malware, or malicious software that is a lot more complicated that typical malware. Ransomware can present itself in a few ways. Read more to learn how to protect yourself.
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What is ransomware? And how to help prevent it
Read MoreRansomware remains a threat to your computer and all the data that's on it. Keeping in mind a few dos and don'ts will help protect you.
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When Were Computer Viruses First Written, and What Were Their Original Purposes?
Read MoreModern day computer virus origins may surprise you- their goals were not quite the same as they are today. Early on, viruses had varied utilities and were engineered mostly by people in computer...
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Why Mac users are not immune from viruses and malware
Read MoreI worked in an Apple Store Genius Bar. The first thing that caught my attention was the number of customers coming in with malware issues.
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Online Scams
Read MoreIn this section learn about scams that cybercriminals use to steal information and commit identity theft. Read articles on how to spot and prevent online scams.
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Kids' Safety
Read MoreWith the right information at your fingertips, you can make better decisions for your child’s cyber safety. Read articles about online security for your family.
