10 Types of Malware that Can Threaten Your Company Data

Your company's credibility lies in the security of the data stored on your computer. Your device is not always safe and is at risk of malware attack. The types of malware that attack are not just one, but quite many, and have their attack steps. That's why it's essential to know the types of malware to identify the source.
 

What Are the Types of Malware You Should Be Wary Of?

The increasingly sophisticated world of the internet is giving rise to new types of malware. You may be familiar with malware like viruses, trojan horses, worms, or ransomware, but other types are more dangerous. Essentially, they're all created with one goal: to weaken your computer and steal its essential data.

Get to know the different types of malware to watch out for in this article.

Also Read: Mengenal Jenis Jenis Cyber Crime yang Harus Anda Waspadai
 

1. Viruses

Almost all types of company files are susceptible to viruses. This type of malware will duplicate itself without your knowledge. The virus modifies the computer program and inserts a series of codes. Once thriving, your folder or drive will be infected by the virus.

Also Read: 7 Cara Mengembalikan File yang Hilang karena Virus di Laptop dengan Mudah

The perpetrators of the virus want to make their profits through their acts of sabotage. Viruses are spread through email, downloaded files or software, instant messages, network connections, and even media transferred via USB ports.
 

2. Keylogger

A keylogger or keyboard recorder records typing activity on the keyboard without your knowledge and sends the recorded results to the keylogger.

Keylogging is usually used to find sensitive data such as passwords, OTP, or PINs. Trojans generally install this type of malware, which can also be a physical cable connected to the keyboard peripheral network.
 

3. Worm

Worms work like viruses, duplicating themselves and spreading across computers. The difference is that worms are more effective and can run independently without your help, while viruses usually work when clicking on infected files.

Worms are effective malware that attacks web, email, and database servers. After successfully infecting a server, worms can spread quickly over the Internet and computer networks.
 

4. Trojan

A Trojan Horse is malware that disguises itself as a legitimate or valid program to trick you. The Trojan will continue to hide on your computer until you open the program.

The perpetrator uses the open Trojan program to snoop on your activities. They steal sensitive data and can even access your computer system. Trojans originate from phishing activities carried out through email or websites that you visit.
 

5. Rootkit

A rootkit is a set of malware created by the perpetrator to withhold command and control of the computer without the user knowing. As a result, the perpetrator will fully control your computer after being infected with a rootkit.

The perpetrator will snoop on your computer usage, retrieve files, and even change system settings remotely. Most antivirus software has difficulty removing rootkits, so you must rebuild your compromised computer system.
 

6. Ransomware

Ransom means ransom. This malware will deny your data or computer system access until you pay a ransom. If the ransom has not been paid, the perpetrator will try to steal data or spread the virus to your computer.

Also Read: Beragam Cara Mengatasi Ransomware dengan Cepat dan Tepat

There is also the term cryptoware, which works similarly to ransomware. The difference is that you have to pay the ransom using digital currency so that the transaction is not easily traced.
 

7. Adware

This type of malware is harmless but can be unpleasant when browsing. Adware constantly pops up ads on your screen when you visit a website. The perpetrator uses this tactic to trick users. Adware supports other programs, so files or software are installed on the device without your knowledge.
 

8. Spyware

Spyware is malware that can gain access to confidential information about your company. It will attempt to steal information on your internet usage, finances, or even your employees.

Spyware also snoops on your internet habits and browsing history. The data obtained from malware is then sold to competing companies or irresponsible individuals.
 

9. Logic Bombs

This type of malware only operates when something triggers it, such as a date or time set by the perpetrator. Logic bombs are usually installed on viruses and worms so that they can spread at certain times or conditions.

The damaging effects of logic bombs can include altered data bytes and unreadable hard disk drives. However, you can turn off this attack with an antivirus so it doesn't activate again for months.
 

10. Botnet

A robot network, aka botnet, is a collection of remotely controlled bots. Botnets will infiltrate a security network connected to your computer system. Botnets are more dangerous because they can spread to other Internet of Things devices, such as printers.

Botnets also attack websites through DDoS attacks, making them temporarily inaccessible. This problem is detrimental for those who use the website as an online store.

Also Read: Amankan Segera Website Anda dari Serangan DDOS Attack dengan DDOS Protection
 

What's the Difference between Viruses and Malware?

For the layman, the two are often considered to have the same meaning, and even in everyday life, they are usually used to describe the same thing. Both are commonly thought of as software that infects computers for destructive purposes.

The two have a fundamental difference. Malware is an umbrella term for any computer software or operation that aims to attack or harm a computer. Meanwhile, a virus is one type of malware.

Aside from the difference in definition, the two also have other differences, such as differences in spread and purpose. Malware usually spreads through phishing attacks, such as getting people to download infected files or open malware-laden emails. Meanwhile, viruses traditionally spread through corrupt web pages or storage.

Also Read: Apa Itu Phising serta Ciri-ciri, Jenis, dan Tips Menghindarinya

In terms of purpose, malware usually has a goal to gain profit. One of them is using ransomware-type malware attacks. Meanwhile, virus attacks usually aim only to damage the computer system without seeking to make a profit, although virus attacks can be part of a ransomware attack.
 

What are the signs that malware has attacked your device?

It's not difficult to detect a device that's been attacked by malware. Look at the five simple traits below to know that malware has attacked your computer.
 

1. Always Pop-Up Ads

This characteristic is most identical to adware. The perpetrator will try to display as many ad pop-ups as possible to make money. At first glance, it's clear that adware is harmless so that you can ignore these ad pop-ups.
 

2. Slow Computer Performance

Some types of malware also steal computer resources for misuse, slowing down your computer's performance.
 

3. Computer Stops Suddenly

Malware that overloads computer resources will make your device unresponsive. Slowly, the computer will stop suddenly and reboot, so you have to restart it.
 

4. Unknown Emails

Unrecognized emails arriving in your inbox could also be from malware senders. Malware can infiltrate social media accounts or email accounts so that hackers can discover your detailed login information. Finally, the perpetrator will send unauthorized emails up to many times.

Also Read: Cara Cara Mengamankan Akun Email Dari Hacker Dengan Efektif
 

5. Notifications from Antivirus Applications

An active antivirus application will always detect malware on your computer. It will notify you about the virus and remove the file immediately. However, you shouldn't sit idly by; you should take the steps suggested by your antivirus to improve your data security.

If your computer shows any of these five signs of malware, you should immediately remove the malware. Use Cloudmatika Cyber Protection to provide extra protection against malware on your computer.

You'll get benefits that other antivirus software can't offer if you choose Cloudmatika Cyber Protection. This service has been integrated with cloud backup and disaster recovery to keep company data safe on our system. Contact Cloudmatika today and increase your company's credibility by using antivirus software that can attack all types of malware.