MalwareTipCard-HomelandSecurity.pdfVIP

MALWARE TIP CARD Malware, short for “malicious software,” includes any software (such as a virus, Trojan, or spyware) that is installed on your computer or mobile device. The software is then used, usually covertly, to compromise the integrity of your device. Most commonly, malware is designed to give attackers access to your infected computer. That access may allow others to monitor and control your online activity or steal your personal information or other sensitive data. TYPES OF MALWARE There are many unique types of malware that can infect your computer. Below is more information about a few of the more common types, according to the Department of Homeland Security’s United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team (US-CERT):  Adware: a type of software that downloads or displays unwanted ads when a user is online or redirects search requests to certain advertising websites.  Botnets: networks of computers infected by malware and controlled remotely by cybercriminals, usually for financial gain or to launch attacks on websites or networks. Many botnets are designed to harvest data, such as passwords, Social Security numbers, credit card numbers, and other personal information.  Ransomware: a type of malware that infects a computer and restricts access to it until a ransom is paid by the user to unlock it. Even when a victim pays the ransom amount, the stolen files could remain locked or be deleted by the cybercriminal.  Rootkit: a type of malware that opens a permanent “back door” into a computer system. Once installed, a rootkit will allow additional viruses to infect a computer as various hackers find the vulnerable computer exposed and compromise it.  Spyware: a type of malware that quietly gathers a user’s sensitive information (including browsing and computing habits) and reports it to unauthorized third parties. 