The world of malware keeps evolving, and hackers become smarter with each new day. It’s no longer a case of dealing with viruses alone—now, we have to face off ransomware, spyware, fileless exploits, and even AI-powered malware. If you’ve been online recently (which, let’s be honest, is all of us), you’ve probably heard about a big malware attack hitting a company, government agency, or even regular users like you and me. What’s new in the malware universe, and how can one outsmart such malware? Let’s have a rundown.
Ransomware is not new, but its use is changing for cyberattackers. Instead of individual hackers bringing an attack, they’re providing for resale software tools for creating ransomware, in a similar manner a software vendor sells software for resale. That’s a model for Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS), and it’s taken the use of ransomware to an all-time high.
Attackers don’t even have to be coders any more. They can buy packages of ransomware off dark web forums and start attacking companies, hospitals, even individuals. What’s the goal? Lock down the victims’ files and have them pay a fee to remove the lock. Unfortunately, even if you pay the ransom, there’s no guarantee you’ll get your files back.
The best form of defense for fighting off ransomware is having good backups. If your files have been backed up in a safe location (an external drive, for instance, or a cloud service), then you won’t have to pay to regain them. In addition, don’t go in for opening suspicious email attachments, most cases of ransomware begin with a seemingly innocent message.
Artificial intelligence is transforming almost all industries, and, unfortunately, hackers are reaping its reward, too. AI-powered malware can learn and adapt your behavior, change security defenses, and even change its operations in an attempt to go undetected.
For example, traditional anti-viral software can inhibit a well-known malware file, but an AI-based malware can modify its code ever so marginally such that it no longer matches with anti-viral databases. It’s a shapeshifter that continues changing in order to stay one step ahead of its enemies.
Since AI-powered malware is designed to outsmart traditional security software, you need cutting-edge protection. Most cybersecurity companies today use AI-powered security software capable of discovering and preventing such new types of threats and data breaches. Have your firewall and anti-virus software updated, and don’t ever trust unfamiliar files and links.
Most malware accomplish their work by putting harmful files onto your computer, but fileless malware doesn’t have to follow that path. Instead, it insinuates its presence into ordinary programs—like your web browser or system processes—and exploits them for its gain. Because no apparent file of malware can be detected, it’s a lot more challenging to trap.
Attackers often attack your computer with a fileless attack through a phishing message or an exploited website. Once in, your passwords can be taken over, your activity can be monitored, or your computer can be hijacked.
Since fileless malware is hidden in ordinary programs, you must pay even stricter attention to what and where you download and click. Having robust anti-malware software that identifies suspicious activity (and not necessarily files) can make a significant impact. In addition, have your OS and all programs updated regularly, for software updates often have security vulnerabilities filled in them.
Gone are the days when malware was just a problem for computers. With everyone banking, buying, and social networking through smartphones, hackers have begun attacking mobiles with renewed intensity.
Fake apps, adware, and even SMS phishing (smishing) are a few of the most common mobile malpractice techniques. Hackers can cause an app to impersonate a bank app, for example, and have you enter your credentials. Or, a hacker can send a bogus message with a bogus link.
Stick to downloading programs only through approved stores, including Google Play and the App Store. Even then, first review and permissions, then download. Don’t trust SMS message links, even when your bank, a big corporation, etc., seems to have sent them. Something doesn’t sound correct? Instead of opening the link, go to the site’s website directly.
Everything from smart doorbells to smart assistants is connected to the web these days. As useful as such gadgets make life, they expose one to new security vulnerabilities. Inadequately secured IoT gadgets can fall into hackers’ hands, and hackers can utilize them for cyberattacks.
For example, a criminal can hijack smart thermostats and smart cameras and access your in-home network. Worse, specific forms of malware can make IoT devices “botnets” that enable enormous web and business site cyberattacks.
First, change default passwords for any device that you buy. Most have default passwords, and hackers can simply use them to access them. Next, update your gadgets—manufactures regularly update security with plug-ins for vulnerabilities. Lastly, use a separate network for your smart gadgets such that in case one of them is attacked, your computer and phone won’t be attacked.
Malware is evolving continually, and hackers discover new attack methods almost daily. Protecting yourself, nevertheless, is not impossible. What is key is to educate yourself, use good security software, and practice safe web conduct.
At the end of the day, cybersecurity isn’t just for businesses or tech experts, it’s something we all need to think about. Whether it’s keeping backups of your files, watching out for phishing emails, or securing your smart home devices, a little caution goes a long way in keeping you safe from the latest malware threats. Stay aware, stay updated, and most importantly, stay safe online!
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