Malware Definitions
Malware is a abbreviation for, Malicious Software, that is inserted or installed on your computer without your permission or knowledge.
This group includes:
- Viruses - a program hidden within another harmless program that reproduces itself and can cause damage to files, delete data, display irritating messages, computer crashes, etc.
- Worms - a program that can copy itself from one computer to another across the network. It differs from a virus, in that it can run itself and does not require a host program. Some worms can generate emails containing copies of the worm and be sent across the internet.
- Trojan Horses - a program that appears to be harmless, but is very malicious. It allows unwanted outside sources to gain access of your computer to perform things such as data theft.
- Rootkits - a program that allows someone to control your computer, and hides it's presence from the administrator or computer owner. They are difficult to detect and remove, because rootkits erase all evidence of their presence.
- Key loggers - A surveillance software that can detect every key stroke you make. Employers can detect how their employee's use their computer, or malicious individuals can steal your pass words and credit card information.
- Hijackers - Scammers take control of your web browser. Symptoms: your browser homepage changes without your permission, when attempting to navigate to a site, you are redirected to another website, endless popup's, additional toolbars suddenly appear on your browser, and your computer runs slower.
- Spyware - A program that secretly monitors how the user use their computer. It sends information to advertisers or other unauthorized individuals.
- Adware - Displays numerous pop ups and advertising banners. It will slow down your computer, because it uses your RAM and can also slow internet connections because it clogs up your bandwidth when trying to recall advertisements.
- Rogues - Fake security programs that show phony virus alerts, even though your computer may be clean. They scare you into purchasing a program to remove these fake viruses. Some rogues actually download actual viruses so your scanner will detect them. They can also prevent you from updating your windows OS and antivirus programs.
- Drive By Downloads - Downloads that take place without the users knowledge it is taking place. This happens when a user opens a infected email or clicks on a pop up window, releasing the malicious program installation.
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