Are you worried about the latest types of malware threats?
Cyber attacks cost small businesses an average of $200,000 per year. In some cases, the impact forces them to close shop.
These computer viruses can enter your system and steal valuable data in seconds. The key to beating malware is to identify them from a mile away.
Consider reading below for a guide to the latest malware attacks and how to keep them at bay.
Mobile Malware Threats
Mobile malware threats will likely increase in 2022. Cybercriminals will use malware to hack into mobile wallets and mobile payment platforms.
Less threatening types of malware like Adware will also become prevalent. Adware uses other programs to enter your mobile device. It usually appears as a pop-up or through a web browser.
It piggybacks a legitimate program to make you think it’s safe to install. Once it enters your device, it automatically displays advertisements, generating revenue.
Meanwhile, mobile phishing poses a more serious threat to your device. It uses mobile applications to send the malware to your device. Once the virus enters, it collects your passwords, contacts, and other personal data.
Sometimes, the applications come with Trojans. Some of them disrupt devices by changing the phone’s language or wallpaper. Most of them attempt to steal passwords and banking details.
Clop Ransomware
Clop ransomware is malware encrypting your files until you settle the ransom. Its most common targets are Windows users, and the attacks are invasive and dangerous.
Once the Clop virus enters your computer, it encrypts all your files. It does so by blocking over 600 Windows processes.
It also disables several Windows 10 applications. These include the Microsoft Security Essentials and Windows Defender.
The Clop ransomware leaves you with no protection by compromising these security applications. The danger with this type of malware is the extent of its targets.
In 2020, the Maastricht University in the Netherlands paid €200,000 to Russian hackers. The latter used the Clop ransomware to mess up the school’s systems.
Fake Windows Updates
Another favorite type of ransomware hackers use is the fake Windows updates. Cybercriminals will send emails to their targets. It prompts the latter to install urgent Windows OS updates.
The unknowing victims will install the false updates, which are “.exe” files in reality. After downloading the supposed update, the ransomware begins its work. It encrypts all programs and files then asks for a ransom payment for their freedom.
The problem with fake Windows updates is not all antivirus software can detect them. You must invest in high-level antivirus to discover these. Consult with a trusted computer repair provider about legitimate Windows updates.
News Malware
Hackers also found a new way to target people through news malware attacks. Cybercriminals send out emails disguised as current news.
The email prompts the receivers to click on a link to open the news item. The link contains malware, stealing your personal information. It also copies the files on your computer.
Zeus Gameover
Zeus Gameover is a Trojan malware belonging to the “Zeus” family of viruses. The malware’s primary goal is to access the bank details of their targets and steal their money online.
Unlike other forms of malware, Zeus Gameover is one of the hardest to stop. It doesn’t need any centralized command and control server to do its damage. Instead, it bypasses centralized servers to create independent ones.
Through these servers, the malware can send sensitive information. It keeps you from tracing your data.
Cryptojacking
Cryptojacking targets computers and mobile devices and uses them to mine cryptocurrencies. Cryptojackers use their victims’ computing power to make new crypto coins. In turn, their devices start to run slower than usual.
Social Engineering
Some hackers take their creativity to the next level through social engineering. This method uses human psychology and deception to access their victims’ data.
Social engineering is not malware. However, it uses the same concept to steal information.
An example is when hackers pretend to be service providers. They send an email asking questions about their victims’ accounts.
They say there’s a problem with their account. It convinces the victim to respond to the email with sensitive information or logins.
The hackers use urgency to trick their victims into responding immediately. As the victims give their information, the hackers get a free pass to their banking accounts.
Tips for Fending off Malware Threats
Malware affects businesses and individuals alike. For this reason, learning how to protect your data is non-negotiable. Revisit your system for security vulnerabilities. Older devices become more susceptible to malware threats.
Check your software and update them. Review your operating systems and make sure they have the latest patches. Use the latest versions of your browsers.
When opening emails, don’t click unsafe links, especially if they’re from spam emails. Don’t open links from unknown websites.
If you receive an email with suspicious attachments, think twice before opening them. Review the sender’s details and check if it has the correct address. If it tells you to run macros, don’t open it.
When working outside, use VPN services. Public Wi-Fi networks are favorite targets of hackers. Don’t connect USB sticks without running a virus scan. If a virus infects your computer, look for a reliable virus removal service provider.
Invest in top-notch antivirus and security intelligence programs. Lastly, always back up your files. Use an external hard drive to store important files or transfer them to the cloud.
Let’s Get Rid of Your Computer Viruses Now
By understanding the latest malware threats, you can protect your devices effectively. You’ll be familiar with the red flags and prevent a costly cyber attack. If a virus gets into your device, we’ll be happy to remove them.
We offer virus removal and computer repair services. Get in touch with us and tell us more about your concerns. Let’s get your device up and running today.
