What is Malware?

Malware is short for Malicious Software. Malware is designed to cause harm to other software or hardware. The term malware comprises viruses, spyware, Trojans, ransomware, and any other software or code that is created for malicious intent.

Malware can affect PCs, computer networks, servers, and devices in several ways. Computer viruses are the most common form of malware. A virus replicates itself and spreads to other hosts on the network each time it runs. Worms function similarly to viruses. The difference is that a virus must be activated by the user, whereas a worm can run itself autonomously.

Ransomware is malware that blocks a user’s access to their computer until they pay money to the hacker.

Users whose computers are infected with malware can be bombarded with unwanted ads, have their sensitive data seized, and be redirected to malicious websites designed to harm them. Malware attacks can result in harm on many levels, including stealing data and destroying entire systems or networks. The majority of cybercrimes are committed using malware, often in the form of large-scale attacks resulting in identity theft and fraud. In addition to targeting individuals and businesses, malware attacks are also waged against governments.

 

How Does Malware Work?

Malware is introduced into a computer, network, or other device when the user clicks on a link or downloads a malicious program. The user may download the malicious software from the internet, or they may activate it from an email. As soon as the victim clicks on the link or downloads the file attachment in the email, the malware starts running, giving birth to some unexpected actions that the user cannot predict. It could result in the following actions:

What Does Malware Look Like?

Several methods can be used to attack the user, but the most common one involves tricking them into clicking a link in an email or a pop-up in a browser window. Victims are often enticed or coerced by urgent calls to action, such as “Your account has been compromised, login to stay secured,” or “Claim your prize”.

While users may encounter malware attacks when browsing the web, the more effective attacks are specifically targeted by an attacker who sends them directly through email, text message, messenger, Skype, Instagram, or other communication methods.

The scenario usually demands that the user perform some action immediately, otherwise something bad will happen, such as they will lose a single opportunity of claiming a free iPhone 12 pro max, or their account will get blocked. If the attack is conducted on a corporate level, an employee might get an email supposedly from their superior. In order to complete the task requested by the manager, the victim is required to click the link provided or download the file. Since the employee thinks it is from their boss, they take the action immediately without giving it a second thought. The moment they download the malware, they put themselves and the entire organization at risk.

 

How to Spot a Malware Attack?

Malware emails have become common in businesses. Sometimes, malware emails are just random, broad attacks. Such attacks are relatively easy to detect. More insidious, however, are attacks engineered to target specific users. Such attacks may be harder to identify. But when you are vigilant and know what to look for, you’ll be able to spot a malware email through several simple telltale signs.

The Sender

The sender information is always the first thing to verify in order to detect malware attacks. Check to see if the sender is an unfamiliar individual with whom you have never interacted before. Even if it is from someone you know, take the time to check the email address. Look at the email address carefully for any spelling errors or alterations to the address. For example, you might correspond regularly with Joe@microsoft.com, but a suspicious email might come from Joe@micros0ft.com. The difference may not be readily apparent if you are not paying close attention.

The Subject

The subject line is the next thing to notice. Is the subject line provoking , tempting, or forcing you to take action? Additionally, the subject line may start with ‘RE:’, claiming to be a response to some previous email. Take a moment to consider whether you sent that original email.

Links or Attachments

Finally, look at the provided links or attachments in the email. Does the link or attachment make any sense? Are you expecting that person to send a link or attachment? Even if you are expecting something, always call the sender to confirm they sent the message.

 

How Can You Stay Protected from a Malware Attack?

Malware attacks come in a variety of types, but fortunately, there are several prevention methods to guard yourself against malware. Here are a few examples.

Keep Your Devices Updated

It is extremely important that you keep your operating system and software updated since hackers usually exploit the vulnerabilities within older versions. In order to prevent problems, install new updates right away.

Be Careful Online

When browsing online, beware of clicking unnecessary links or popups that suddenly appear in front of you. No matter where it appears on the social networking site, text message, or email, if you are unfamiliar to a link, ignore it.

Check Your Devices Regularly

Run regular scans of your device from time to time. Install trusted antivirus software and ensure it is always active. Even if malware has penetrated your system already, your antivirus programs should provide you with the means to remove it.

 

How Does Trustifi’s Inbound Shield Protect You from Malware Attacks?

 

Trustifi provides advanced protection against cyber threats to an organization’s email system. Trustifi features the Inbound Shield that acts as an email filter. As soon as Trustifi’s Inbound Shield is deployed to your company’s email system, sophisticated AI software begins scanning every email received by your server. Each incoming email is placed in a sandbox where Inbound Shield’s multi-layered detection scans everything about the email including sender, email subject, content, links, and attachments. To be deemed safe, an email must pass all tests at each layer.

The email is scanned in 3 parts and has a unique and advanced approach for each part.

Email Content and Headers

Links – Advanced Methods to Catch the Most Sophisticated Phishing Sites

Files – Deep Scanning

Learn how you can protect yourself and your company with Trustifi’s Inbound Shield. Contact a Trustifi representative today to view a demo and see how simply and affordably Inbound Shield can safeguard your systems.