Knowing the Different Types of Malware to Look Out For

There are several different threats that may pose risks to your computer and related devices, and one of the broadest such categories in the software realm is known as malware. Malware refers to any software that is designed to disrupt, damage or gain unauthorized access to a computer system, and it may show up in a number of different forms in your device if you're not careful.

At PC Laptops, threat protection themes are key for all of our quality Orem desktop and laptop computers, and we regularly assist clients with everything from antivirus programs to malware prevention and more. What are some of the distinct types of malware that are out there, and how can you ensure none of them become issues for you? Here's a simpler primer.

Adware

One of the simpler forms of malware to understand is known as adware, which is designed to bombard users with advertisements in an intrusive way. This might show up in the form of pop-up windows or other unexpected forms of graphic advertising, and it can be difficult to get rid of once it's taken over your device.

Adware works by tracking your internet history over a period of time and then using that information to target you with ads it believes you'll be interested in. In some cases, this information is harmless enough - perhaps you've been shopping for a new car online and now you're seeing related ads everywhere. However, adware can also be used to collect more sensitive data like banking information or passwords, so it's important to be vigilant. If you suspect adware might be an issue, reach out to a professional for help with removal.

Trojan Horses

Trojan horses are one of the more well-known forms of malware, though many people don't understand exactly how they work. These malicious files are designed to look like harmless programs or downloads, but once they're installed on your device they can wreak all sorts of havoc.

Trojan horses can be used to give hackers remote access to your device, allowing them to steal data or even use your system to commit cyber crimes. They can also be used to install other forms of malware without your knowledge, so it's important to be very careful about what you download and install on your device. If you think a trojan horse might be present, reach out to a professional right away for help with removal.

Ransomware

Ransomware is another fairly well-known form of malware, and it's become increasingly common in recent years. This type of malware essentially locks up your device or encrypts your data, making it inaccessible to you. The attacker will then demand a ransom be paid in order to unlock the device or decode the data, and in some cases this can be a very sizable amount of money.

Ransomware is particularly dangerous because even if you do pay the ransom, there's no guarantee you'll actually get your device or data back. In some cases, the attacker will simply take the money and run, leaving you with no recourse. It's important to be very careful about clicking on links or opening attachments from unknown sources, as this is often how ransomware finds its way onto devices. If you think you might be a victim of ransomware, reach out to a professional for help as soon as possible.

Spyware

Spyware is a type of malware that's designed to collect data about you without your knowledge or consent. This might include things like your internet browsing history, passwords, financial information or even personal conversations. Spyware can be used for all sorts of nefarious purposes, including identity theft, fraud and more.

Spyware is often installed without the user's knowledge, and it can be very difficult to detect and remove once it's present on a device. If you think spyware might be an issue, contact a professional for help.

Worms

Another common type of malware is known as a worm, which is designed to spread itself to other devices on a network. The most effective worms will spread quickly and easily, often without the user's knowledge. Once a worm has infected a device, it can be used to collect data or perform other malicious actions.

Worms are particularly dangerous because they can quickly spread themselves across an entire network, infecting all connected devices. Worms can cause all sorts of problems, including slowing down your device, stealing data or even causing physical damage to your system. Worms are often spread through email attachments or other files, so it's important to be careful about what you open and download. If you think a worm might be present on your device, get in touch with a professional for help with removal.

Bots

Also known as bot viruses, bots are another type of malware that's designed to spread itself to other devices. Bots are often used to create botnets, which are networks of infected devices that can be used for all sorts of malicious purposes. Botnets can be used to send spam emails, launch cyber attacks or even commit fraud.

Bots are often spread through email attachments or websites, so it's important to be careful about what you click on when you're online. If you think a bot might be present on your device, contact a professional for help with removal.

For more on malware and how to protect your device, or to learn about any of our computers or computer repair services in Orem and nearby parts of Utah, speak to the PC Laptops team today.