What is malware in cybersecurity? And How to Protect Against Malware

We previously explained cybersecurity for beginners, discussing what cybersecurity is, how we can protect ourselves from cyber threats, and what actions we need to take. In this post, we will focus on malware in cybersecurity, which is one of the most dangerous cyber threats today. You will learn what malware is, what it can do, and how to protect yourself from it.

In today’s world, where more and more people are using technology, many are unaware that cybersecurity threats are increasing rapidly. One of the most dangerous and persistent threats is malware. It is a harmful software that can enter any computer or system without permission, cause damage, or disrupt its operations.

It is important to know about this software so that you can protect yourself from such threats.

In 2023-24, 5.5 billion malware attacks were reported worldwide, where cybercriminals used advanced techniques to break into security systems.
(Source: Statista)

In this post, we will learn how malware spreads in cybersecurity and what its effects are.

What is malware in cybersecurity?

Malware is a type of software that is intentionally designed to infiltrate and damage computer systems, servers, or networks. Cybercriminals use malware for various purposes, such as stealing personal information, spying on individuals, affecting network operations, or hacking.

How malware works:

• Infiltration
• Execution
• Persistence

• Infiltration: Malware typically comes through fake links, dangerous links, or suspicious attachments sent to you by hackers. If you click on these links or download the attachments, malware can enter your system.

For example, someone might send you a link claiming it’s a game that you can download and play to win a prize. But in reality, that link contains malware that can enter your system and cause damage to your data.

• Execution: Once malware enters the system, it can spread across different devices. It can encrypt files, steal personal data, or open a backdoor for hackers to access the system. This allows hackers to control the system from anywhere in the world.

• Persistence: Modern malware has the ability to hide itself, avoid detection, and continue affecting systems even after attempts to remove it. It can reinstall itself or use different methods to stay hidden, allowing it to keep causing damage without being noticed.

Some examples of malware

Here, I will explain to you some issues to show what malware can do.

• 1986: Brain Virus: The brain virus was the first known PC virus in the world. It was created by two brothers from Pakistan, Basit and Amjad Farooq Alvi. They designed this virus as part of a copy protection experiment for their software. However, the virus began spreading through floppy disks and ended up affecting many computer systems at the time. It was an example of the first known PC virus, showing how a small piece of software can spread and impact systems.

• 1999: Melissa Virus: The Melissa virus is a type of malware that is email-based. It was created by David L. Smith and used email to cause damage to computer systems. When a hacker sends such an email, it works like this:

For example, beginners who are new to the digital world may not know that cyber attacks can happen through email. When a hacker sends such emails, they often say something like, “You’ve won $100,000 or $200,000” and ask the recipient to open the email. People, especially the younger generation today, often open these emails quickly.

When they open the email, the virus automatically sends the same email to the first 50 people, or even more, in the user’s email contact list. As a result, many systems were affected, causing millions of dollars in damage. This incident made people aware of the risks of email attachments and the rapid spread of malware.

• 2017: WannaCry ransomware: Ransomware is sometimes referred to as a crypto virus or crypto malware because it encrypts files and demands a ransom from the affected user. WannaCry was a dangerous ransomware attack that targeted outdated Windows systems that had never been updated. It took advantage of a vulnerability in Windows’ SMB protocol, which was originally discovered by the NSA but later leaked to the public.

This ransomware spread rapidly, infecting more than 150,000 to 200,000 systems worldwide. As soon as a system was infected, it encrypted the files and demanded payment in Bitcoin to unlock them.

The WannaCry attack caused severe damage, especially in the healthcare sector, where hospital systems were hacked. As a result, patient care and medical records were badly affected.

This attack highlights the importance of keeping systems updated so that hackers cannot exploit security weaknesses and take control of your data.

Types of Malware and Their Functions

8 types of malware and And how do they work?

Virus:

A virus is a type of malware that attaches itself to a real file or system. When the infected file or system is opened, the virus installs itself and starts spreading.

It can damage files, slow down the system, and negatively affect its performance.

Example: The ILOVEYOU virus (2000) caused massive damage when people opened the infected file, leading to system failures.

Worms:

A worm is similar to a virus, but the key difference is that it spreads by itself from one system to another.

Example: The Blaster Worm (2003) affected Windows systems and spread through the network.

Trojan Horse:

A Trojan Horse is a deceptive type of malware that looks like useful software, but in reality, it is sent by hackers to gain unauthorized access to your system.

One of my friends who works at a bank received an email. As he was about to open it, his colleague who works with him stopped him. If he had opened the email, the hacker could have gained access to his data and caused damage. This is a recent example, but I can also give you a real-life example to help you understand better.

Just like the Zeus Trojan malware was used to steal banking credentials, it stole money from millions of users’ bank accounts. This Trojan Horse was a program that hid in users’ computers, stole their banking information, and then gave hackers access to those accounts.

Now, you must have understood what is malware in cybersecurity. Now, let me tell you how to avoid it and what measures can be taken to protect against it.

I told you about three types of malware, what they are, and how they can hack your system. There are 5 more types that work the same way: hacking and stealing data.

Ransomware:

Ransomware is a dangerous type of malware that locks your devices, including computers and other digital systems. You only realize your device is locked when you try to access it or research the issue. The hacker who locked your system then demands a ransom (payment) to unlock it.

Spyware:

This is a very harmful software. You can think of it as a thief that secretly steals your information. Or you can imagine it like a spy from an enemy country who enters a place, plants a bomb, or gathers secret information.

Similarly, this software gets installed on your computer or mobile device without your knowledge and steals your personal information like passwords, bank details, and other sensitive data.

It works silently, making it very dangerous. That’s why it’s important to protect your devices and stay alert to prevent such threats.

Adware:

This type of malware is very dangerous. You can think of it like this: when you are searching for something in a research tool or a search bar, you suddenly start seeing automatic ads on your screen. Even if you try to close them, they redirect you to another page instead.

Its main purpose is to show unwanted advertisements on your device. It is usually hidden inside free software and gets installed without your permission. Once inside your device, it starts displaying pop-up ads and redirecting you to unknown websites.

To stay safe, always download software from trusted sources and use an ad blocker to prevent such unwanted ads.

Keyloggers:

This is a dangerous type of malware. You can think of it like this: whenever you type something on your keyboard, send a message, search for information, or do any research, this malware records every key you press.

It saves everything you type, which means it can steal your personal information, passwords, and private messages. This can be a serious threat to your privacy and security.

Rootkits:

My belief is that this is the most dangerous type of malware. It is so strong that it often disables your antivirus software and gains complete access to your computer system. It gives hackers the chance to secretly control your system, and it goes so deep that it becomes very hard to detect. Therefore, I believe that you should update your system regularly, as much as possible.

• My Thought
  
  You can imagine, while I was researching this topic, I was amazed at how one small word—malware—can have so many types, and that they attack your devices in various ways. I was truly astonished by what I discovered. So please, note that this site is meant for everyone to read, and even official people can learn what it is all about.

How to Protect Against Malware

I told you about malware and how it can damage your system. Now, I will tell you how to protect yourself from malware like viruses.

1. Use trusted security software

Install well-known antivirus and anti-malware software like:

• Norton
• Bitdefender
• Malwarebytes

These are good software that helps detect, remove, and protect against future malware attacks.

2. Keep software updated

• Always check for updates on Windows, macOS, and other software. When an update is available, update it immediately, whether it is software, Windows, or any other file.
• Many software updates include security patches that fix new vulnerabilities.

3. Enable firewall and network security tools

• Software Firewall: Installed on your computer, it monitors your internet activity.
• Hardware firewall: a separate device that protects your network from external threats.

4. Be Careful with Emails and Links

• Do not click on suspicious emails or open attachments from unknown sources.
• Phishing attacks often use emails and fake websites to steal user information.

5. Use Strong Passwords and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

• Use a password with at least 12 characters. Do not use fewer than 12 characters.
• A 12-character password is 100 times more secure than an 8-character password.

MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication) is a security process that requires using two or more methods to verify your identity.

For example:

• Password: The first factor (something you know)
• OTP (One-Time Password): The second factor (sent to your mobile)
• Fingerprint or Face ID: The third factor (based on your physical data)

MFA gives you confidence that your system is secure. This method helps make your accounts and systems more secure.

Most Important Tip: Backup Your Important Data

• Store backups on an offline hard drive or cloud storage.
• If a hacker attacks your system, you should have a backup to restore your data.

Here’s a simple and SEO-friendly version of your content, making it easy for 10th-grade students to understand:

How to Detect and Remove Malware

Signs That Your Computer is Infected with Malware

• Your computer becomes slow or crashes frequently.
• You see random pop-up ads or strange activity.
• Your system settings change without your permission.

🛡️ Best Anti-Malware Tools

• Windows Defender: Built-in protection for Windows 10/11.
• Malwarebytes, Norton, Kaspersky, and Bitdefender—trusted antivirus software.

🛠️ Steps to Remove Malware

• Step 1: Disconnect from the internet to stop malware from spreading.
• Step 2: Restart your computer in Safe Mode (this prevents malware from running).
• Step 3: Run a full antivirus scan to detect malware.
• Step 4: Delete or quarantine infected files.
• Step 5: Change all your passwords and enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for extra security.

🔮 The Future of Malware and Cybersecurity

• AI-Powered Malware: Hackers are using artificial intelligence to create more advanced viruses.
• IoT Attacks: Smart devices like CCTV cameras and WiFi routers are becoming new hacker targets.
• New Cybersecurity Innovations: Technologies like Blockchain and Zero Trust Security are helping protect against cyber threats.

Conclusion

By now, you must have understood what malware is. At first, it seems like just a small word, but when you realize what it can do, it becomes truly shocking. When I researched malware and shared my thoughts with others, I was amazed at how this small term represents such a powerful threat. It can sneak into your system, steal your data, and cause serious damage.

That’s why I have given lectures on this topic, shared my knowledge with my friends and teachers, and created this post to help those who are new to the online world. My goal is to help you understand malware and protect yourself from it.

I have shared my experience and thoughts here. If you have any questions or need further clarification, feel free to ask me in the comment box.

For more cybersecurity insights, check out TechnologyN.site!

FAQ

How to Protect Against Malware?

Install well-known antivirus and anti-malware software like:

Norton
Bitdefender
Malwarebytes

Keep software updated, Enable firewall and network security tools, Be Careful with Emails and Links, Use Strong Passwords and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), Most Important Tip: Backup Your Important Data.

What is Future of Malware and Cybersecurity?

As we are advancing in technology, malware and cybersecurity are also progressing. Hackers are developing new strategies for attacks, while cybersecurity experts are creating new defense methods to protect people from malware like viruses. However, hackers are also using technology to make their attacks more complex.

• AI-Powered Malware
• Rise of IoT-Based Attacks
• Ransomware Evolution
• Advanced Phishing Attacks
• Quantum Computing Threats
• Zero Trust Security Model

What is malware in cybersecurity?

Malware is a type of software that is intentionally designed to infiltrate and damage computer systems, servers, or networks. Cybercriminals use malware for various purposes, such as stealing personal information, spying on individuals, affecting network operations, or hacking.