Computer-Related Threats: Viruses, Worms, Trojans, Phishing, Remedies and Protection
Computer can be affected by malware. Malware is malicious program which has intention to harm the computer system by reserving resources, exploiting the data and spoofing the user’s identity.
Virus: It is a section of code in a program. It is parasite in nature that means it can’t survive independently. Virus can be received from email attachment and pirated software. Protection from virus can be prevented using antivirus, keep OS updated.
Worm: Unlike virus, worm are completely a program and are standalone program. This is self-replicating in nature through network without attaching to another file. It consumes network bandwidth and slows down systems. Worm may be obtained from untrusted downloads, insecure network. Protection from worm can be achieved by avoiding downloads from unknown or suspicious websites, enable firewall to block suspicious network traffic.
Torjan Horses: They are malicious program which are looked like friendly but perform harmful activities in background. Torjan Horses are received by fake software download and malicious link. Using VPN, use of Https websites for secure connection can minimize risk of Torjan Horses.
Man in the Middle: It is an active attack. This may occur in communication through network by intruders, especially in internet which is untrusted network, which stands between sender and receiver, spoof receiver as original sender. Intruder receives packets from sender and breaks the integrity of packets and replies to receiver with fake messages. This type of attack is called Man in the middle attack. We can prevent such attacks using digital certificate, use of VPN and multi-factor authentication.
Social engineering: It is a way stealing passwords and useful data such as credit card information pretending as legitimate source. Phishing is a way of social engineering. Such attacks can be prevented by not sharing OTP or passwords, verify identity before responding and enabling spam filter in email inbox.