Types of Malware Quiz

Study Notes

Types of Malware

Virus
- A malicious program that attaches itself to clean files and spreads throughout a computer system.
- Activates when the infected file is executed.
Worm
- A standalone malware that replicates itself to spread to other computers via networks.
- Does not require a host file to operate.
Trojan Horse
- Disguises itself as legitimate software to trick users into downloading or executing it.
- Often used to create a backdoor for unauthorized access.
Ransomware
- Encrypts files or locks users out of their systems until a ransom is paid.
- Targets individuals and organizations.
Spyware
- Secretly monitors user activity and gathers personal information without consent.
- Can capture keystrokes, browser history, and sensitive data.
Adware
- Automatically delivers advertisements, often bundled with free software.
- Can slow down system performance and invade privacy.
Rootkits
- Designed to provide unauthorized users with remote access to a computer while hiding their presence.
- Often difficult to detect and remove.
Botnets
- A collection of compromised computers controlled remotely by an attacker.
- Used for various malicious activities such as distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks.
Keyloggers
- Records keystrokes made by a user to capture sensitive information like usernames and passwords.
- Can be software-based or hardware-based.
Fileless Malware
- Operates without installing files on the hard drive, making it harder to detect.
- Uses legitimate tools and processes to execute malware.

Summary

Understanding the various types of malware is crucial for implementing appropriate security measures. Each type has its unique method of attack and impact, making it important to stay informed and vigilant.

Malware Types

Viruses are malicious programs that attach to files and spread throughout a system. They become active when the infected file is executed.
Worms are self-replicating malware that spread through networks and don't require a host file.
Trojan Horses disguise themselves as legitimate software to trick users. They often create backdoors for unauthorized access.
Ransomware encrypts files or locks users out of their systems to extort a ransom. It targets individuals and organizations.
Spyware secretly monitors user activity and gathers personal information without consent. It can capture keystrokes, browser history, and sensitive data.
Adware delivers advertisements without user consent, often bundled with free software. It can slow down system performance and invade privacy.
Rootkits provide unauthorized users with remote access to a computer while hiding their presence. They are often difficult to detect and remove.
Botnets are networks of compromised computers controlled remotely by attackers. They are used for malicious activities like DDoS attacks.
Keyloggers record keystrokes to capture usernames, passwords, and other sensitive information. They can be software-based or hardware-based.
Fileless Malware operates without installing files on the hard drive, making it harder to detect. It uses legitimate tools and processes to execute malware.

Description

Test your knowledge on the various types of malware, including viruses, worms, and ransomware. This quiz covers key characteristics and functions of each type, helping you understand the importance of cybersecurity. Challenge yourself to identify and differentiate these common threats!