Types of Malware to Be Aware Of- By Tim Blackburn

Computers, laptops and even smartphones are constantly exposed to different malicious programs aimed at causing various damages to the system. These nasty programs are generically known as malware. Malicious software (or shortly malware) is any type of software which can be harmful for your computer. Let's have a closer look at the most common malware types you should be watchful of.

Bots and Trojans

A Bot (short for Robot) is an automated program which allows your computer to be operated by other users. Generally, this malicious software infects several computers which allows sending a huge amount of spam email messages or executing Denial of Service attacks.

A Trojan (short for Trojan Horse) can be contracted with an email message or a usual file download. This software inserts a so-called backdoor to the system making it accessible to the unauthorized users.

Adware and Spyware

Adware and spyware programs are usually contracted when surfing the Internet. The main aim of adware is to expose Net surfers to commercial ads. For example, adware may cause a browser directing you to websites you did not plan visiting, or may trigger the appearance of pop-up advertisements on your computer. Generally, this malware is not dangerous, but its effects can be quite annoying.

Contrary to adware, spyware can be extremely harmful. This piece of software steals information from your PC and sends it to a third party. Spyware may steal your personal or financial information, passwords, bank account details, fax/telephone numbers, addresses, etc. At the same time it can collect information about your browsing habits. This may be information about the sites you visit or files you download.

Viruses

Viruses are the most common malicious programs which have been around for quite a long period of time. Several decades ago viruses were mainly distributed by means of physical media, like floppy disks. However, in the days of Internet technology viruses are distributed online (via hidden documents or email attachments). At the same time, this type of malware can be contracted anytime you connect any type of physical storage (MP3s, flash memory sticks, etc) to your computer. The effects of catching computer viruses can be different, from minor annoying troubles to the severe damages of files and hardware.

Keyloggers

This type of malicious software is extremely dangerous, as it helps executing the most harmful online activity - identity theft. A keylogger records everything computer owner types on the keyboard. This software allows cybercriminals getting access to passwords, logins, bank account information and codes a computer owner uses to access secure information.

With a wide variety of malicious programs ready to attack your PC, you need to learn how to protect yourself and your computer.

To protect your PC from the intrusion of malware it is necessary having a reliable antiviral program. Visit http://malwarelist.net/ to learn more on different types of computer security software.

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