Many people who visit computer repair shops learn that the source of their device’s issues is malware. A contraction of “malicious software,” malware refers to any software designed to cause damage and steal data. To protect your technology, learn the most common types of malware and how they enter a device.

5 Most Common Types of Malware 

1. Trojans

If you’ve ever visited a website and encountered a pop up urging you to install a program to clear infections from your computer, you were likely dealing with a Trojan. When a user runs a program pushed by this virus, the malware can then delete, block, modify, copy, or steal your data and disrupt the performance of your computer or network.

2. Worms

Unlike Trojans, worms don’t require any action on the user’s part to start causing trouble. Instead, they spread by exploiting files and programs, often due to either software vulnerabilities or infected email attachments that automatically download the worm. A worm usually spreads to multiple victims and may delete or modify files, install more malicious software, or even deplete system resources by replicating itself over and over.

3. Ransomware

Usually a type of Trojan, ransomware encrypts every file in a system or network and leaves a ransom note demanding cryptocurrency payment if the user wants to regain access to their files. When the user doesn’t pay the ransom, their files may be destroyed. However, even if the ransom is paid, the hackers still might not decrypt the files. The best option is to keep a reliable offline backup to prevent further corruption.

4. Fileless Malware

Responsible for more than half of the financial institution breaches according to computer repair specialists, fileless malware doesn’t use files to infect devices. Instead, it spreads using memory, registry keys, or scheduled tasks. It causes the same kinds of damage as other types of malware, but because it doesn’t exist in files, it’s more difficult to detect and eradicate. 

5. Hybrids

Most current malware combines more than one traditional type of malware, often mixing Trojans and worms. This means the malware is downloaded due to deceptive Trojan tactics but then replicates itself and spreads to other victims like a worm. Like Trojans and worms, hybrid malware can cause many forms of damage, including deleted or stolen data, the installation of more malware, and depleted system resources. 

Fully removing any of these types of malware requires the expertise of a computer repair technician. If your Apple® device is infected, turn to Experimax San Jose in Santa Clara, CA. The experienced team will perform a thorough diagnostic assessment and get to work removing any infections so you can safely enjoy your device again. In addition to computer repair, they also provide iPad® and iPhone® repair, data recovery, and screen replacement. Explore their services online, and call (408) 320-4626 to schedule an appointment today. Walk-ins are also welcome.