pace-it, security+3.1: types of malware

Types of malware.

Instructor, PACE-IT Program – Edmonds Community College

Areas of Expertise Industry Certification PC Hardware Network

Administration IT Project

Management

Network Design User Training IT Troubleshooting

Qualifications Summary

Education M.B.A., IT Management, Western Governor’s University B.S., IT Security, Western Governor’s University

Entrepreneur, executive leader, and proven manger with 10+ years of experience turning complex issues into efficient and effective solutions. Strengths include developing and mentoring diverse workforces, improving processes, analyzing business needs and creating the solutions required— with a focus on technology.

Brian K. Ferrill, M.B.A.

Types of malware.

– Malware defined.

– Common types of malware.

PACE-IT.

Malware defined.Types of malware.

Malware defined.

Malware can be defined as any code based (i.e., software based) attack that can be utilized against a system or network.

In most cases, malware has been specifically designed to perform a malicious (causing harm) action. As such, it can also be defined as any software that harms or misuses the system (which can include just slowing the system down).This means that a poorly written software package can also fall into the definition of malware, even if harm was not the intent. Always thoroughly test any software package before deploying it in a production setting. This will help to reduce the chances of introducing unintentional malware into the network.

Types of malware.

Common types of malware.Types of malware.

Common types of malware.

– Virus.» Malware that has two jobs—to replicate and to activate.» Requires a host program, a host machine, and user

action to spread.» Viruses only affect drives (e.g., hard drives and USB

drives).» Often contains a destructive payload.

– Trojan.» Malware that hides its purpose by disguising itself as

something that the end user desires.» Used to get the end user to download a virus package.» This is often the method that is used to establish

botnets or zombie nodes.

– Worm.» Similar to a virus, but it replicates itself across a

network without user action.» It doesn’t need a host file in order to operate.» Worms will replicate themselves across networks,

creating havoc.

Types of malware.


– Rootkit.» A software package that gets installed on a system,

giving the attacker privileged access to the system.• Most often, the attacker attempts to hide the rootkit

from the administrator.

– Logic bomb.» A virus that, after getting installed on a system, waits

for a specific event to occur before activating its payload (performing its malicious action).

• The application carrying the logic bomb will function normally until the trigger event occurs.

• Often, logic bombs are triggered by date and time.

– Ransomware.» A virus package that takes over an infected system for

the purpose of extorting money from the end user.• Often, the virus will encrypt all the files and folders on

the infected system—effectively locking out the end user.

Types of malware.


– Botnet.» A collection of infected systems (zombie nodes) under

the control of the attacker. The zombies are used to perform other attacks.

• The zombie controller will often rent out the use of a botnet for other attackers to use.

– Adware.» A software package designed to automatically load

advertisements on a system—usually in the form of pop-up windows.

• The goal is to entice users to purchase something; the result is usually just annoyance and poor system performance.

– Spyware.» Malicious code that collects information about the

system and may change some settings.• May be programed to send the collected information

to an attacker at specific times.• May be programmed to save the collected information

until the attacker performs another action.

Types of malware.


– Polymorphic virus.» A virus package that self-mutates in order to avoid

detection by antivirus applications.• Allows the virus to avoid signature based malware

detection.

– Armored virus.» A virus package that attempts to harden itself against

defensive actions, making it difficult to be decompiled.• Antivirus vendors often decompile (take apart) viruses

when developing countermeasures.

– Backdoor access.» When creating applications, developers often create

backdoors into the programs. Backdoors are a means of accessing an application or service, while bypassing the normal authentication process.

• In most cases, the application is listening on a specific port (e.g., an open port) for a request for access.

» Malware can also be used to open a backdoor into a program, a computer system, or even a network.

Types of malware.

What was covered.Types of malware.

Malware can be defined as any code based attack that can be used against a system or network. In most cases, the malware is specifically designed to perform a specific attack. Unfortunately, poorly written software may also act as malware (unintentionally)—as it may harm a network or system.

Topic

Malware defined.

Summary

There are many different types of malware. A virus requires a host system and application in order to function. A Trojan is an application that disguises its true purpose (appears to be something other than what it is). A worm replicates across a network and doesn’t require a host system or user interaction. Other types of malware include: rootkits, logic bombs, ransomware, botnets, adware, spyware, polymorphic viruses, armored viruses, and backdoors.


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