The different types of computer viruses
malware, and what they do
There are many different types of computer viruses, malware, and Trojans. Here is a list of some of the most common types:
1. Viruses
A viruses is a type of malware that is designed to replicate itself and spread to other computers. A virus might attach itself to a program or file so that it can spread when the program or file is run or opened. Viruses can also spread through email attachments or by being downloaded from infected websites.
2. Worms
A worm is similar to a virus in that it is designed to replicate itself and spread to other computers. However, a worm does not need to attach itself to a program or file in order to spread. Instead, a worm can spread itself through network traffic.
3. Trojan Horses
A Trojan horse is a type of malware that is disguised as a harmless program or file. However, when the Trojan horse is run or opened, it can allow a hacker to gain access to your computer. Trojans can be spread through email attachments or by being downloaded from infected websites.
4. Adware
Adware is a type of software that displays advertisements. Adware is often bundled with free programs or games. While most adware is not harmful, some adware can track your online activity and send sensitive information to third-party advertisers.
5. Spyware
Spyware is a type of malware that can track your online activity and send sensitive information to a third-party. Spyware is often installed without your knowledge and can be difficult to remove.
6. Ransomware
Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts your files and demands a ransom in order to decrypt them. Ransomware is often spread through email attachments or by being downloaded from infected websites.
7. Browser Hijackers
A browser hijacker is a type of malware that changes your browser’s home page or search engine. Browser hijackers are often installed without your knowledge and can be difficult to remove.
8. Key Loggers
A key logger is a type of malware that records your keystrokes. Key loggers can be used to steal sensitive information, such as passwords and credit card numbers. Key loggers can be installed without your knowledge and are often difficult to remove.
9. Rootkits
A rootkit is a type of malware that gives a hacker access to your computer. Rootkits can be used to gain access to sensitive information or to control your computer remotely. Rootkits are often difficult to detect and remove.
10. Backdoors
A backdoor is a type of malware that allows a hacker to gain access to your computer. Backdoors are often installed without your knowledge and can be difficult to remove..More information
How to avoid computer viruses when using email
Most email providers have some built-in security features to help protect your computer from viruses when using email. However, there are some additional steps you can take to further protect your computer.
When using email, always be wary of any attachments you receive. If you don’t know the sender, or if the attachment looks suspicious, don’t open it. It’s also a good idea to scan any attachments with your antivirus software before opening them.
In addition to being cautious with attachments, you should also be careful about clicking on links in email messages. If a message looks suspicious, or if you don’t know the sender, don’t click on any links. And, as with attachments, if you do click on a link, make sure you have a good antivirus program running to protect your computer.
Another way to protect your computer when using email is to use a web-based email service instead of downloading and using an email program on your computer. When you use a web-based service, your email is stored on the provider’s servers, not on your own computer. This means that if your computer does become infected with a virus, the virus will not be able to spread to your email messages.
Of course, no matter how careful you are, there’s always a chance that your computer could become infected with a virus. That’s why it’s important to have a good antivirus program installed and running. Make sure you keep your antivirus software up-to-date, so it can protect you against the latest threats.
Visit malwarezero.org to learn more about computer viruses. Disclaimer: We used this website as a reference for this blog post.
