Malware Types and Phishing Attacks

Viruses: Self-replicating programs that attach to files and spread when the infected file is executed.
Worms: Standalone malware that replicates itself to spread across networks without user action.
Trojan Horses: Disguised as legitimate software; they trick users into installing them, allowing unauthorized access.
Spyware: Collects user data without consent, often monitoring activities and stealing sensitive information.
Adware: Automatically displays or downloads advertisements, often bundled with free software.
Rootkits: Designed to remotely access or control a computer without being detected, often modifying the operating system.

Definition: Deceptive attempts to obtain sensitive information by masquerading as a trustworthy entity.
Methods:
- Email Phishing: Fraudulent emails that appear to be from legitimate sources.
- Spear Phishing: Targeted phishing attacks aimed at specific individuals or organizations.
- Whaling: Highly targeted phishing attacks directed at senior executives.
Prevention:
- Educate users on recognizing phishing attempts.
- Implement email filtering and anti-phishing software.
- Use two-factor authentication for sensitive accounts.

Definition: A type of malware that encrypts files and demands a ransom for decryption.
Prevention Strategies:
- Regular Backups: Keep offline backups of critical data.
- Software Updates: Regularly update operating systems and applications to patch vulnerabilities.
- Security Software: Utilize reputable antivirus and anti-malware tools.
- User Awareness: Train employees on safe browsing and email practices.
- Network Segmentation: Isolate sensitive data and systems to limit the spread of ransomware.

Firewalls: Monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic based on security rules.
Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): Detect and report suspicious activities within a network.
Virtual Private Networks (VPN): Secure remote access to a network by encrypting data transmitted over the internet.
Access Control: Implement user authentication and authorization to restrict access to sensitive information.
Network Monitoring: Regularly monitor network traffic for unusual activity or potential breaches.

Definition: A structured approach to handle and mitigate the impact of security incidents.
Phases:
- Preparation: Develop and implement an incident response plan, train staff, and establish communication channels.
- Identification: Detect and ascertain the nature of the incident.
- Containment: Limit the damage by isolating affected systems and preventing further spread.
- Eradication: Remove the cause of the incident, such as malware or unauthorized access.
- Recovery: Restore and validate system functionality, ensuring systems are clean before bringing them back online.
- Lessons Learned: Analyze the incident to improve future responses and update security policies.

Viruses: Self-replicating code that attaches to files, spreading upon execution of the infected file.
Worms: Autonomous malware that spreads across networks without needing user interaction.
Trojan Horses: Malicious software disguised as legitimate applications, tricking users into installation and allowing unauthorized access.
Spyware: Gathers user data covertly, monitoring activities and stealing sensitive information without consent.
Adware: Automatically displays or downloads advertisements, often bundled with free software installations.
Rootkits: Tools that allow remote access or control of a computer undetected, often modifying the operating system.

Definition: Deceptive tactics aimed at acquiring sensitive information by impersonating a trustworthy source.
Methods:
- Email Phishing: Fake emails that mimic legitimate organizations to solicit personal information.
- Spear Phishing: Targeted attacks directed at specific individuals or businesses, increasing the likelihood of success.
- Whaling: A focused attack targeting high-level executives or senior personnel within an organization.
Prevention:
- Educate users to recognize and report phishing attempts, enhancing awareness.
- Implement email filtering and use anti-phishing software to block suspicious messages.
- Utilize two-factor authentication to secure sensitive accounts against unauthorized access.

Definition: A form of malware that encrypts files, demanding a ransom for their decryption.
Prevention Strategies:
- Regular Backups: Maintain offline backups of critical data to prevent loss in case of an attack.
- Software Updates: Keep operating systems and software patched to close security vulnerabilities.
- Security Software: Deploy reputable antivirus and anti-malware solutions to detect and block threats.
- User Awareness: Train individuals on safe online practices and email etiquette to avoid falling victim.
- Network Segmentation: Segregate sensitive data and systems to contain ransomware spread more effectively.

Firewalls: Systems that filter and control network traffic based on predefined security rules to protect against threats.
Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): Monitor network traffic for suspicious activities, alerting administrators to potential threats.
Virtual Private Networks (VPN): Provide secure remote access by encrypting data transmitted online, safeguarding privacy.
Access Control: Implement authentication and authorization measures to limit access to sensitive information based on user roles.
Network Monitoring: Conduct continuous observation of network traffic to detect anomalies or possible security breaches.

Definition: A systematic approach to managing and mitigating security incidents effectively.
Phases:
- Preparation: Establish an incident response plan, train personnel, and create communication protocols.
- Identification: Ascertain and analyze the incident to understand its nature and scope.
- Containment: Restrict the incident's impact by isolating affected systems and preventing further spread.
- Eradication: Remove the root cause of the incident, such as malware or unauthorized access pathways.
- Recovery: Restore and validate system functionality, cleaning systems before reactivation.
- Lessons Learned: Review and analyze the incident to refine response strategies and update security measures.