What is Malware Software?
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Loading...Malware refers to any malicious software that is intended to cause damage or operational disruption to the host computer. It may also be used to steal personal or professional information by bypassing access controls in the host computer.
There are many different types of malware in existence. Some of the common forms of malware are worms, viruses, Trojans, spyware, adware, rootkits, etc., which can attack and damage, disable, or disrupt host computers and networks.
The overwhelming majority of malware programs are created to make money illegally, often by stealing sensitive and confidential information from victims’ computers and mobile devices.
Malware can also be used to cyber-vandalism, cyber espionage, hacktivism, cyber warfare and various other reasons.
What is Zero-day Malware?
Zero-day malware is designed by hackers who have taken advantage of a previously unknown vulnerability in the host systems or applications.
Hackers design zero-day malware to target a specific security flaw (zero-day vulnerability) in a software application or host system and then use that malware to compromise the host system or cause unusual behaviors to occur on the software.
The infamous WannaCry attack which disrupted several organizations and forced many to down their shutters is an ideal example of the security risks posed by zero-day malware.
How Malware Infects a Computer?
Malware can infiltrate your computer through various means, but the most common method is through phishing links and seemingly benign software downloaded from shady websites.
Malware can get into your computer if you click on the links or open attachments from suspicious emails sent from unknown email addresses.
Effects of Malware Infections:
Be it an average user or an organization; any computer user can be a victim of malware attack. If your system got infected with adware, it would bombard your computer screen with several annoying pop-ups which can’t be closed at your will.
If your computer gets infected with malware, it can slow down your computer and also corrupts your computer making it inoperable in some extreme cases.
How to Protect Your Devices Against Malware?
Malware can run in the background, and you cannot find it unless you have the best antivirus or virus removal software. This is also applicable to an organization with multiple endpoints operating at various locations.
The best way to protect your computer and other devices from malware is to keep your operating system clean and up-to-date by downloading regular security patches and updates.
When it comes to an organization’s security, antivirus products are not a viable option. The ideal way to disarm even the potent malware is to have an advanced endpoint protection system. Xcitium Advanced Endpoint Protection (AEP) is such a solution which provides real-time protection for all of your endpoints.
Xcitium AEP outsmarts all other endpoint protection systems as it isolates malware from penetrating the company’s local area network at the device layer and executes them in the isolated or restricted system environment. It is the most intelligent endpoint protection solution that offers multiple layers of protection against known and unknown threats.
Get Xcitium Advanced Endpoint Protection today and secure your endpoints against any malware threats.
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