Malware, short for “malicious software,” refers to any software specifically designed to harm, exploit, or damage a computer, network, or device. It can disrupt normal operations, steal sensitive information, or grant unauthorised access to users or systems. Malware is typically used for malicious purposes, such as stealing data, damaging systems, or causing financial loss.
• Viruses
A virus is a type of malware that attaches itself to a legitimate file or programme. It spreads when the infected file is executed, potentially corrupting files, stealing information, or damaging the system. Like the biological virus it’s named after, it can spread from one device to another, often through infected files or shared software.
• Trojans
Trojans are a type of malware that disguise themselves as legitimate software or files, tricking users into downloading or opening them. Once installed, they can give hackers unauthorised access to a device, steal sensitive data, or damage the system. Unlike viruses, Trojans don’t replicate or spread by themselves—they rely on users to download and execute them.
• Ransomware
Ransomware is a type of malicious software that locks or encrypts files on a device, rendering them inaccessible. The attacker then demands a ransom, usually in cryptocurrency, for the decryption key. Ransomware attacks can be devastating for individuals and organisations as they may lose access to important files unless they pay the ransom.
How Does Malware Get on Your Device?
Malware can find its way onto your device through several different means, usually exploiting user actions or vulnerabilities in software.
• Downloading Bad Files
Malware can be bundled with seemingly harmless files or software. When you download these files from untrustworthy sources (e.g., suspicious websites, peer-to-peer sharing, or unofficial app stores), you might unknowingly install malicious software alongside them. Once the file is downloaded, the malware can execute and begin its attack.
• Visiting Bad Websites
Certain websites are known to harbour malware or exploit vulnerabilities in your browser or device. When you visit these sites, you might be tricked into downloading harmful software, or the site may contain code that automatically infects your device. These sites often look legitimate but contain hidden threats.
• Opening Weird Emails
Phishing emails are one of the most common ways malware is spread. These emails appear to be from trusted sources but contain malicious attachments or links. Opening these attachments or clicking on the links can trigger the download of malware onto your device. These emails may even seem to come from banks, government agencies, or colleagues, making them hard to detect.
What Are Signs of Hidden Malware?
When malware is running on your device, it can affect performance and behaviour in several noticeable ways. Recognising the signs of hidden malware early is crucial in minimising damage.
• Slow Device
If your device suddenly becomes slow, unresponsive, or crashes frequently, it could be a sign that malware is running in the background, consuming system resources. Malware often operates covertly, taking up processor power and memory, leading to noticeable performance issues.
• Strange Pop-ups
Unexpected or persistent pop-up ads are a common sign of malware infection. These pop-ups may promote fake software, ask you to click on dubious links, or warn you about fabricated security issues. Legitimate websites rarely generate such intrusive advertisements, so if you notice unusual pop-ups, it’s worth investigating for malware.
• Battery Drains Fast
Malware can cause your device’s battery to drain quickly by running processes in the background. If you notice that your battery life is much shorter than usual, it could indicate that hidden malware is consuming power. This is particularly common in mobile devices and laptops.
• High Internet Usage
Malware often communicates with external servers, uploading or downloading data, which can lead to unusually high internet usage. If you notice that your internet usage is spiking without any obvious reason (like streaming or downloading), it may be due to malicious activity, such as your device being part of a botnet or sending data to an attacker.
How Can You Check for Malware?
If you suspect that your device may be infected with malware, there are several steps you can take to check for and remove it.
• Use Antivirus Software
Antivirus software is designed to scan your device for known malware signatures and remove any threats. It’s essential to keep your antivirus software updated to ensure that it can detect and protect against the latest threats. Running regular scans can help you stay ahead of potential infections.
• Check Your Apps
If you’re using a mobile device, regularly review the apps installed on your phone or tablet. Look for any apps you don’t recognise or that seem suspicious. Malware often disguises itself as legitimate apps. If you find anything unusual, uninstall the app immediately.
• Look at Task Manager
On a PC or Mac, you can open the Task Manager (or Activity Monitor on Mac) to see which processes are running. If you notice any unfamiliar processes consuming a lot of system resources or acting strangely, it could be a sign of malware. Research the process name to determine if it’s harmful or legitimate.
• Check Your Browser
Malware often alters browser settings, installs malicious extensions, or redirects web traffic. Check your browser’s extensions or add-ons and remove any unfamiliar ones. You should also reset your browser’s settings to ensure that malware hasn’t changed your homepage, search engine, or other configurations.
• Contact Us for Help with Online Safety
If you’re unsure whether your device is infected or need assistance in removing malware, contact us who specialise in cybersecurity. We help diagnose the issue and offer solutions to protect your device and personal information. It’s always better to seek help than to risk further damage or data theft.