Malware Infection

Malware — or “malicious software” — is any program designed to harm your device and data. Several types of malware — including trojans, viruses, ransomware, spyware and worms.

Malware infection occurs when malware, or malicious software, infiltrates your computer. Malware is a type of software created with the intent of damaging the victim's computer, stealing private information or spying on a computer without the consent of the user.

A malware infection can cause many problems that affect daily operation and the long-term security of your company. Here are some of the many things malware can do.

1. Steal Your Sensitive Information - Information theft is one of the most serious and costly results of malware. Once pieces of malware such as spyware and trojans are installed on your device, hackers can gather your personal and company information to sell to third-party sources. This information can include browsing history, passwords, client profiles and other sensitive data.

2. Slow Your Computer - Once a piece of malware is in action, it begins to consume a large chunk of your computer’s memory. Many types of malware also replicate themselves and fill your hard drive, so there’s little room left for legitimate programs. This loss of space can lead to a sluggish computer, which makes it difficult to carry on with business as usual.

3. Restrict Access to Your Files - Certain types of malware can damage or delete files and programs on your computer. Unless your data is backed up on another hard drive or cloud server, you won’t be able to regain access to many of these files after a cyber attack.

One type of malware known as ransomware holds the files on your computer hostage. Ransomware hackers threaten to delete all of your data unless you give them money.

4. Spread Throughout Your Network - Worms are an especially disruptive type of malware for businesses. Once this malware infects a computer, it replicates itself and spreads throughout the entire network. Most companies operate all their devices on a single network — which means that a worm could damage not just one employee’s computer, but the entire organization.

5. Disrupt Daily Operations - Adware is specifically a nuisance for business productivity. When installed onto a computer, it enables constant popups and can even redirect your search results to advertisers’ sites — making it hard for anyone to enjoy the functionality of their device.

Symptoms of Malware

Some of the most common symptoms of a malware infection include:

1.      Slow computer

2.      Lack of storage

3.      Crashing or freezing

4.      Pop-ups and unwanted programs

5.      Spam

Steps toward minimizing your risk of malware threats:

·         Install anti-malware software

·         Perform regular employee security training

·         Avoid clicking unknown links and pop-ups

·         Keep your system up to date

·         Implement network security

Prevent malware infection

1. Keep software up to date - Software updates patch vulnerabilities so they aren't available to exploits anymore.

2. Be wary of links and attachments - Email and other messaging tools are a few of the most common ways your device can get infected. Attachments or links in messages can open malware directly or can stealthily trigger a download. Some emails give instructions to allow macros or other executable content designed to make it easier for malware to infect your devices.

3. Watch out for malicious or compromised websites - When you visit malicious or compromised sites, your device can get infected with malware automatically or you can get tricked into downloading and installing malware. To block malicious websites, use a modern web browser like Microsoft Edge that identifies phishing and malware websites and checks downloads for malware.

4. Pirated material on compromised websites - Using pirated content is not only illegal, it can also expose your device to malware. Sites that offer pirated software and media are also often used to distribute malware when the site is visited. To stay safe, download movies, music, and apps from official publisher websites or stores.

5. Don't attach unfamiliar removable drives - Some types of malware spread by copying themselves to USB flash drives or other removable drives. There are malicious individuals that intentionally prepare and distribute infected drives by leaving them in public places for unsuspecting individuals. Only use removable drives that you are familiar with or that come from a trusted source. 

6. Use a non-administrator account - To help ensure that everyday activities do not result in malware infection and other potentially catastrophic changes, it is recommended that you use a non-administrator account for regular use. By using a non-administrator account, you can prevent installation of unauthorized apps and prevent inadvertent changes to system settings. Avoid browsing the web or checking email using an account with administrator privileges.