There are many different types of malware which can cause problem with your digital life.
Human action is required for a virus to start, and many viruses attach themselves to .exe files.
As the user opens the executable file, the virus will come to life.
Many viruses are created to annoy users and make small changes such as altering wallpapers on the desktop.
In other cases, viruses can lead to the complete loss of data and render computers useless.
You should take care to scan executable files before running them for the first time.
To avoid viruses there areAnti virus softwareare available which can provide either on demand scanning or real time scanning.
Always use an antivirus which have real time protection functionality.
Spyware
Spyware doesnt harm your box, but instead targets the user.
Once running on your system, spyware can track everything you jot down.
Usually, spyware attaches itself to executable files and is installed quietly in the background.
In most cases, the user wont notice when spyware has been inadvertently installed.
To protect the users from spyware there are some dedicatedanti-spyware softwarethese they are also known asanti-malware software.
Mostly all reputed antivirus software are bundled with inbuilt anti-spyware module these days.
So always check this feature when you choose your protection software.
So mostly reputed companies can not include them as threat in their database.
Though anti-malware and antivirus companies given them another name as Potential Unwanted Programs (PUP).
There are some dedicatedadware removal toolsare also available in the market to get rid of them.
Otherwise search on internet and you will find tons of sites giving instructions to remove them.
Scareware
Scareware is used to scare you into buying software you dont need.
In most cases, your gear is fine and you dont need to do anything.
Even if you were to go ahead and buy the software, its likely that it wouldnt do anything.
Scareware usually contains other types of malware too which can further harm your box.
Most of scareware are result of fake tech support companies read more about it attech support scams.
Ransomware
Ransomware is similar to scareware, but it is far more sinister.
Files saved on your machine will be encrypted and youll need to pay the fee to unlock your files.
Ransomware are increasing day by day and it is the emerging and most dangerous threat.
Worms
Worms work similarly to viruses, but they dont require human intervention to replicate themselves.
Worms use security flaws to transmit themselves to new devices.
Once installed, they can have a range of negative effects on your machine.
One of the most famous worms was called ILOVEYOU.
The total cost in damage to businesses was estimated at $5.5 billion.
Trojans are usually downloaded from rogue websites and require some user intervention to install themselves on computers.
Once installed, a Trojan will give a hacker complete control of your system.
They can then steal your personal information, steal your files, or cause your gear to stop working.
In most cases, however, Trojans are used to create botnets which are then used in denial-of-service attacks.
Malware is a pervasive problem and you should use best practices to protect yourself from its many forms.
Use a range of antivirus tools to ensure that your system doesnt become infected.
Install an antivirus software.
Install an Anti-Malware software with real time protection.
Keep an on demand second opinion scanner to check that you are safe from all threats.