Types of Malware

There are many types of malware. Here are some examples.

Adware

Adware is software that serves the end user advertisements. Adware may also monitor a user’s behavior to deliver targeted advertisements. This software is often installed surreptitiously.

Backdoors

Backdoors bypass normal authentication methods, providing an attacker with access to a system.

Botnets

Botnets are multiple systems which are running software that can be controlled by an attacker using C2 (Command and Control) software. Botnets are used to perform DDoS attacks, steal data, send spam emails, or provide an attacker with access to multiple systems.

Credential Harvesters

Credential harvesters are tools which gather credentials to systems. These may search configuration files, scrape memory, sniff network traffic, inject malicious code into authentication mechanisms, or dupe a user into entering their password into software controlled by an attacker.

Cryptojackers

Cryptojackers are malware which use a system’s processing resources to mine cryptocurrency.

Droppers

Droppers are malware which is designed to install additional malware on a system.

Exploits

Exploits leverage misconfigurations and bugs in software, providing an attacker with unauthorized or elevated access to a system.

Fileless

Fileless malware exists exclusively as a memory-based artifact.

Ransomware

Ransomware is a type of malware which extorts users by encrypting their data or threatening to release their data publicly unless a ransom is paid.

Rootkits

Rootkits allow an attacker to remain hidden on a system.

Spyware

Sniffers, clipboard sniffers, Screenshots, steal files, record audio, key loggers,

Trojans

Trojans are software which mislead the user to their intent. An example of a trojan would be a fraudulent Android application which provides a legitimate utility such as using the camera’s flash as a flashlight, but also collects data from the device to deliver targeted advertisements to a user.

Viruses

Viruses are malware which when ran, infect additional files on a system.

Worms

Worms are similar to viruses. Worms are self-replicating malware which usually spreads over the network by taking advantage of security flaws.