Malware is a huge threat in the digital world. It can cause a lot of damage and cost people a lot of money. As technology advances, so do the tactics used by cybercriminals. AltrueTECH provides cybersecurity services in the Charlotte area that protect against the risk of malware. In this article, we will explore some of the newest and trickiest types of malware.
7 Malware Threats to Watch Out For
At AltrueTECH we work to prevent and protect customers from malware. One way we can do this is by informing. Here are seven new types of malware to be aware of:
1. Polymorphic Malware
Polymorphic malware is a type of malware that changes its code every time it replicates. This makes it hard for antivirus software to detect because it looks different each time. Polymorphic malware uses an encryption key to change its shape and signature. It combines a mutation engine with self-propagating code to change its appearance continuously and rapidly morph its code. Due to the nature of this malware, it can continue spreading even if a new signature is added to the antivirus database
This malware consists of two main parts: an encrypted virus body and a virus decryption routine. The virus body changes its shape, while the decryption routine remains the same and decrypts and encrypts the other part. The parts of this malware make it more easily identifiable, nevertheless, they are still difficult to combat with antiviruses.
Criminals use obfuscation techniques to create polymorphic malware. These include:
- dead-code insertion
- subroutine reordering
- register reassignment
- instruction substitution
- code transposition
- code integration
These techniques make it harder for antivirus programs to detect the malware. Because polymorphic malware changes so frequently, it has often avoided detection and caused significant damage in attacks. This type of malware is particularly challenging because it requires advanced detection methods beyond traditional signature-based scanning.
2. Fileless Malware
Fileless malware is malicious software that works without planting an actual file on the device. It can be spread to a computer without the downloading or installing of files. It is written directly into the short-term memory (RAM) of the computer. This type of malware exploits the device’s resources to execute malicious activities without leaving a conventional trace on the hard drive.
Fileless malware typically starts with phishing, a deceptive attack that seems to come from a legitimate source in order to acquire sensitive information. Once the user clicks on the link or opens the attachment, the malware is activated and runs directly in RAM. It often exploits vulnerabilities in software like document readers or browser plugins to get into the device.
After entering the device, fileless malware uses trusted operating system administration tools like PowerShell or Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) to connect to a remote command and control center. From there, malicious texts are downloaded, attackers can than perform harmul activities within the memory of the device. Fileless malware can exfiltrate data, sending stolen information to attackers and potentially spreading across the network to access and compromise other devices or servers. Additionally, this malware is hard to detect because it is able to run without leaving files behind.
3. Advanced Ransomware
Ransomware holds hostage the data from individual computers as well as large networks. This stolen information is then encrypted using strong methods and often steals sensitive data before encrypting it. This adds extra pressure on victims to pay the ransom because their data could be leaked publicly if they don’t comply.
Ransomware attacks typically start with the installation of a ransomware agent on the victim’s computer. This agent encrypts critical files on the computer and any attached file shares. This type of malware stands out in how attackers seek to receive money after corruption. After encryption, the ransomware displays a message explaining what happened and how to pay the attackers. If the victims pay, they are promised a code to unlock their data.
Ransomware has become more common, advanced, and targeted. These attacks can cause significant financial losses and disrupt essential services.
4. Social Engineering Malware
Social engineering malware tricks people into installing it by pretending to be something safe. Phishing, which usually comes in the form of deceptive emails, and pretexting, which creates a false scenario, are two ways people are deceived into accepting this malware. This type of malware relies on people making mistakes rather than exploiting technical weaknesses.
Social engineering attacks follow a four-step process: information gathering, establishing trust, exploitation, and execution. Cybercriminals gather information about their victims, pose as legitimate individuals to build trust, exploit that trust to collect sensitive information, and finally achieve their goal, such as gaining access to online accounts.
5. Rootkit Malware
Rootkit malware allows attackers to obtain root-level access, the highest level of control a user can have on a system or device. Although rootkits have some legitimate uses, most are used to open a backdoor on victims’ systems to introduce malicious software or use the system for further network attacks.
Rootkits often attempt to prevent detection by deactivating endpoint antimalware and antivirus software. They can be installed during phishing attacks or through social engineering tactics, giving remote cybercriminals administrator access to the system. There are many types of rootkit malware, including memory, virtual, application, and more.
6. Spyware
Spyware is malicious software designed to enter your computer device, gather data about you, and forward it to a third-party without your consent. Spyware can monitor your activities, steal your passwords, and even watch what you type. Spyware is not only a threat to privacy, but also decreases the performance and efficiency of a device.
Spyware infiltrates devices via app install packages, malicious websites, or file attachments. It captures data through keystrokes, screen captures, and other tracking codes, then sends the stolen data to the spyware author. The information gathered can include login credentials, credit card numbers, and browsing habits.
7. Trojan Malware
Trojan malware tricks users into thinking it is legitimate software, leading them to install it voluntarily. Trojans are hard to detect, even if you’re extra careful. They don’t self-replicate, so most Trojan attacks start with tricking the user into downloading, installing, and executing the malware.
Trojans have a lot of control over the devices and software they occupy. They can install, modify, disrupt, steal, and send information. They often spread through phishing scams, where scammers send emails from seemingly legitimate business email addresses.
Protect Yourself from Malware
Protecting yourself from malware requires using the right technology and being aware of the risks. By staying informed and proactive, you can significantly reduce the risk of malware infections. AltrueTECH wants to help you safeguard your digital world, contact us today to stay safe from malware.