Technology has greatly facilitated our lives in the current digital era. Today, technology plays a significant role in many of our everyday activities, including banking, communication, education, work, entertainment, shopping, and more. However, with the convenience of technology comes the risk of malware. But why do cybercriminals create and spread malware, and what is its intent? This blog aims to shed some light on the purpose of malware.
What is malware?
Malware, an abbreviation for malicious software, refers to software designed to damage, disrupt, or obtain unauthorized access to IT systems. Malware can take several forms, such as viruses, Trojans, worms, ransomware, and spyware.
What is the main reason malware is used by cybercriminals?
The intent of malware can vary depending on the type of malware and the attacker's goals. Some common intents of malware are:
Stealing Information: One of the primary goals of malware is to steal information. Cybercriminals can use malware to collect sensitive information such as credit card numbers, login credentials, and personal information. This information can then be sold on the black market or used for identity theft, financial fraud, or other illegal activities.
Disrupting operations: Malware can be designed to disrupt operations by causing system crashes, deleting files, or rendering systems unusable. This type of malware is frequently used by hackers for political or ideological reasons or as a form of revenge.
Exploiting vulnerabilities: Malware is often created to exploit IT systems and software vulnerabilities. Cybercriminals identify vulnerabilities and develop malware to take advantage of them before they are patched by vendors.
Spreading: Some malware is designed to spread quickly across networks and devices, infecting as many systems as possible. This type of malware is often used for botnets or Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks. Botnets are networks of infected devices that can be controlled remotely to perform tasks such as sending spam emails, mining cryptocurrency, or launching DDoS attacks.
Ransom: Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts files on a victim's systems, rendering them inaccessible. The attacker then demands a ransom payment in return for the decryption key. In recent times, ransomware attacks have become more prevalent, with cybercriminals targeting businesses, institutions, hospitals, and government agencies.
Surveillance: Spyware is a type of malware that is designed to spy on a victim's activities. This can include monitoring keystrokes, capturing screenshots, and recording audio or video. Cybercriminals can use spyware to gather sensitive information such as passwords, credit card numbers, and other personal information.
Tips to protect from malware:
Keep your operating system updated
Keep antivirus software up to date
Always use strong and unique passwords
Employ multi-factor authentication
Never download files from unknown sources
Avoid clicking on suspicious links
Final words:
The intent of malware is to cause harm to IT systems and the people who use them. Cybercriminals create and distribute malware for financial gain, political reasons, revenge, or other illegal activities. By being vigilant and taking necessary precautions, you can minimize the likelihood of falling victim to malware.
Enroll in one of InfosecTrain's many cybersecurity training courses to learn more about malware and how to protect yourself and your company from the malicious intent of cybercriminals who spread malware. These courses are curated to provide you with the fundamental to advanced level expertise depending on your current knowledge and skills. Some of the courses you can consider are:
