Sophisticated malware attacks use a command-and-control server to allow attackers to communicate with the infected computer system, steal sensitive information from the hard drive or gain remote access to the device.Įmerging strains of malware cyber attacks include evasion and obfuscation techniques designed to fool users, security administrators and anti-malware products. Phishing is another common malware delivery method where emails disguised as legitimate messages contain malicious links or email attachments that deliver executable malware to unsuspecting users. For example, WannaCry, a famous ransomware attack was able to spread by exploiting a known vulnerability. These malicious programs can steal, encrypt or delete sensitive data, alter or hijack key computing functions and to monitor the victim's computer activity.Ĭybercriminals use a variety of physical and virtual means to infect devices and networks with malware. Common types of malware include computer viruses, ransomware, worms, trojan horses and spyware. Malware, or malicious software, is any program or file that harms a computer or its user.

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