Malware (or malicious software) is a broad term that describes any program or code that was designed to harm systems. Malware can invade, damage or disable computers, computer systems, networks, mobile devices and tablets.
Malware can be used to steal, encrypt, delete your information or spy on your computer activity without your knowledge. Cybercriminals use malware to steal identities, obtain personally identifiable information, as well as infect smartphones and laptops.
3 common types of malware
1) Phishing emails
These are fake emails that appear to look like they’re from a trustworthy source, such as a credit card company or bank. If you open a phishing email and click on the links in it, malware can be activated.
Smishing is a type of phishing in which fraudsters use text messages to trick people. When clicked, links in smishing texts help criminals steal information such as bank account numbers, credit card details, passwords and more.
2) Social Media Scams
Social media channels are often covered by malware to target unsuspecting victims. Fraudsters are able to steal information that is freely shared online.
3) Ransomware
This is designed to deny access to a computer system or data until a ‘ransom’ is paid. Ransomware spreads through phishing emails, visiting infected websites and more.
How to protect yourself from Malware?
1) Be careful about opening emails, especially ones that look suspicious.
2) Avoid clicking on links in text messages unless you know for sure that it’s from a valid and reputable source.
3) Don’t over-share information on social media. For instance, don’t simply forward links without knowing what the source is.
4) Log out of websites after you’re done. You could be vulnerable to malware attacks if you don’t log out, especially if you’re using a public computer.
What can you do about it?
Worried that you may have been targeted by malware? If you’re not sure whether your personal information was stolen and may have ended up on the Dark Web right now, there’s a way to find out. Subscribe to CTOS SecureID. It is a fraud protection and credit monitoring service that helps safeguard you against identity theft, frauds and scams. It sends you alerts when something is amiss, such as if your personal information has turned up on the Dark Web and more.
