Malware or malicious software is software specifically designed to damage computer systems, networks, mobile devices, or other electronic equipment, steal data, use system resources without authorization, or cause material or moral harm to users.

History

The history of malware dates back to the early 1970s. The first computer virus is considered to be a program called Creeper in 1971, which spread on the ARPANET network. In the 1980s, with the emergence of personal computers, viruses began to spread more widely. In 1986, the Brain virus was created and recorded as the first virus for PCs. In 1988, the Morris worm caused major disruptions on the internet and demonstrated the importance of cybersecurity.

In the 1990s, with the development of internet technologies, malicious programs became more sophisticated. In the 2000s, malware began to be used for commercial purposes - cybercriminals started using malicious programs to steal banking information, send spam, and conduct other illegal activities. In the 2010s, ransomware became widespread, and major attacks like WannaCry and NotPetya occurred in 2017. Today, the malware industry has turned into a black market economy worth billions of dollars.

Types of Malware

1. Virus - malicious code that spreads by attaching itself to other programs or files. When a user runs an infected file, the virus activates and spreads throughout the system.
2. Worm - a type of malware that automatically replicates itself through networks without user intervention. Worms exploit system vulnerabilities to move from one computer to another.
3. Trojan Horse - a program that appears to be legitimate software but performs malicious operations in the background. Trojans do not replicate themselves but can open the system to other malicious programs.
4. Ransomware - a type of malware that encrypts user files or the entire system, making them inaccessible, and demands a ransom for decryption. It has been one of the most profitable types of cyberattacks in recent years.
5. Spyware - a program that secretly monitors user activity, collects personal information, bank card details, passwords, and sends them to cybercriminals.
6. Adware - a program that displays unwanted advertisements to users. Some types of adware also track user behavior.
7. Rootkit - a type of malware that hides at a deep level in the system and makes detection of other malicious programs difficult. Rootkits often operate at the kernel level of the operating system.
8. Keylogger - a program that records all keys pressed on the keyboard and sends this information to attackers. Used for stealing passwords and credit card information.
9. Botnet - a network of infected computers controlled by central command. Botnets are used for DDoS attacks, spam distribution, and other cybercrimes.
10. Cryptojacker - malware that performs cryptocurrency mining by unauthorized use of a user's computer processing power.

Distribution Methods

Malware can spread through various means: email attachments, malicious websites, infected software downloads, USB and other storage devices, social engineering attacks, network vulnerabilities, and through advertisements (malvertising).

Impact and Consequences

Malware infection can lead to serious consequences: theft of personal and financial information, reduced system performance, data loss, ransom payments, identity theft, financial losses, and business operation disruption. For organizations, malware attacks can also result in reputation damage and legal liabilities.

Protection Measures

To protect against malware, it is recommended to use antivirus and antimalware programs, regularly update software, avoid opening suspicious email attachments, use strong passwords, enable firewalls, create data backups, and increase cybersecurity awareness.