Introduction to Malware Overview

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following malware types is specifically designed to monitor user activity and potential steal sensitive information?

  • Virus
  • Ransomware
  • Spyware (correct)
  • Worm

Ransomware typically targets large organizations, while spyware mostly affects individual users.

False (B)

What is a common method for distributing spyware?

Bundled with other software

A keylogger is a type of spyware that records ______.

<p>keystrokes</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the malware type with its primary function:

<p>Worm = Self-replicating malware that spreads across networks Virus = Requires host file to replicate Ransomware = Encrypts data and demands ransom Spyware = Monitors user activity and steals data</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a type of malware discussed in the content?

<p>Trojan Horse (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Viruses require user interaction to spread.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of ransomware?

<p>To encrypt a victim's files or lock their system and demand a ransom payment for their decryption or access restoration.</p> Signup and view all the answers

A ______ is a type of malware that spreads across networks without needing a host file.

<p>worm</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the malware types to their descriptions:

<p>Virus = A self-replicating malware that spreads across networks without needing a host file. Worm = A type of malware that encrypts a victim's files, demanding a ransom payment for decryption. Ransomware = A type of malware that replicates itself by attaching to other files or programs.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is an example of classic virus?

<p>File Infector (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Boot sector viruses infect the operating system's boot sector, making them active when the computer starts up.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one way to prevent the spread of malware?

<p>Use reputable antivirus software and keep it updated.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Malware

Malicious software designed to harm or access systems unauthorizedly.

Virus

A type of malware that replicates by attaching to files; needs user action to spread.

File Infectors

Viruses that attach to executable files and activate upon running the program.

Boot Sector Virus

A virus that infects the boot sector of disks and activates at startup.

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Worm

Self-replicating malware that spreads across networks without a host file.

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Morris Worm

One of the first major internet worms that exploited a Unix vulnerability.

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Ransomware

Malware that encrypts files, demanding ransom for decryption or access.

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CryptoLocker

Notorious ransomware that encrypted user files for ransom demands.

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Ryuk

A ransomware that targets large organizations for extortion.

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Spyware

Malware that secretly monitors user activity to steal information.

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Keyloggers

A type of spyware that records keystrokes to capture sensitive data.

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Prevention of Malware

Strategies like backing up data and using anti-spyware to avoid malware.

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Study Notes

Malware Overview

  • Malware is malicious software designed to harm or gain unauthorized access to a computer system.
  • Understanding different types of malware is crucial for cybersecurity.

Viruses

  • Viruses are self-replicating malware that attaches to other files or programs.
  • They require user interaction (e.g., running an infected file) to spread.
  • Viruses execute when the infected file is run, seeking out other files to infect.
  • Examples: File Infectors (attach to executables), Boot Sector Viruses (infect boot sectors of disks)
  • Prevention involves using reputable antivirus software and avoiding untrusted sources/email attachments.

Worms

  • Worms are self-replicating malware that spreads across networks without needing a host file.
  • They exploit vulnerabilities in systems to propagate automatically.
  • They rapidly send copies of themselves to other computers on the network.
  • Examples: Morris Worm, WannaCry
  • Prevention includes keeping systems patched, using firewalls, and implementing intrusion detection/prevention systems.

Ransomware

  • Ransomware encrypts a victim's files or locks their system, demanding a ransom payment for restoration.
  • It spreads through phishing emails or infected downloads.
  • Encryption makes files unusable.
  • Examples: CryptoLocker, Ryuk
  • Prevention involves regularly backing up data to an offline location and being cautious about links and attachments.

Spyware

  • Spyware secretly monitors user activity and steals information like passwords, credit card details, and browsing history.
  • It operates in the background, collecting data without user knowledge.
  • It often comes bundled with other software or through malicious websites.
  • Examples: Keyloggers (record keystrokes), adware (displays ads).
  • Prevention involves using anti-spyware software, avoiding suspicious websites, and being wary of software installations.

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