Adware generates unwanted advertisements, often in the form of pop-ups.

From there, they can gain access to your data and alter files, programs and configurations.

A Rootkit allows the coder to remotely access and/or control your computer without detection.

The program purchased is useless or additional malware.

Scareware convinces you your computer has been infected by a virus, even though in most cases no virus is present, so that you purchase fake anti-virus software.

The scammer then demands a ransom is paid in exchange for the decryption key.

Ransomware blocks your access to files or even the entire system by encrypting them.

It may also be able to download additional software to your unit, change your computer settings and/or direct your web searches.

Spyware gathers information about you and your computer usage without your knowledge or consent.

Other popular malware attacks have their own names based on their characteristics. A Trojan, virus or worm’s payload might corrupt your files, crash your entire unit, steal your data, etc. Once on your unit, malware can cause damage and inconvenience in many ways. Worms on the other hand, spread automatically from unit to unit, often through a network due to the latter’s security vulnerabilities. To infect, they require deliberate user action, such as opening a file or program.

Like medical viruses, computer viruses infect one unit then attempt to replicate and spread to others. Other times a programming flaw, or security bug, in a computer’s operating system or other software creates an opportunity for hackers to gain access.Ĭertain types of malware seek to propagate. This usually happens via a Trojan Horse, which is a file that disguises itself as something safe or innocuous but actually contains malware. Often, it’s the user themselves who unwittingly downloads the malevolent software. There are different ways for a computer to become infected. Once installed, malware acts contrary to the your interests, without your consent and often even without your knowledge.

Malicious software, known as malware, is an umbrella term that encompasses a variety of intrusive and/or harmful programs that may infect your computer. It’s beyond time to debunk this myth! All Mac-users should become malware-aware and be proactive to protect themselves and each other. Despite this, a belief persists that Macs are impervious to viruses. Virus programming has also become more sophisticated. But as Apple has become more popular and widespread, it has also become more lucrative to target its users. For many years, Mac-users could feel safe that their devices were less vulnerable than Windows-based computers. For as long as we’ve had computers and the Internet, there have also been nasty people out there who try to exploit this technology to their own gain or amusement.

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