What is malware?
The term malware is a type of malicious software created with the intent of doing harm to devices, data or businesses. Some of the different types of malware include spyware, worms, viruses and Trojans.
These malicious programs can perform a variety of functions, including stealing, encrypting or deleting sensitive data. Being protected against malware is important because it can allow hackers to hijack systems and monitor activity without the user knowing or giving access.
‘Black hat hackers’ are often part of criminal organisations. They use malware to infect devices and to gain access to sensitive data locked away in the computers, networks and mobile devices.
The Dark Web Specialist Darkbeam believes that more than 98% of business have already been hacked-they just aren’t aware of it yet. With the threat landscape changing every day it makes it difficult to remain ahead of the game.
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Whether you are a CISO, an IT Director or a business owner, Equilibrium has the expertise to help you shape and deliver your security strategy.
How does malware work?
Malware can infect systems and devices in many different ways. For instance, it can be delivered physically to a computer through a USB drive. Malware can also spread through automatic downloads on the internet which often happens unbeknown to the user. These are instigated when a user visits a malicious website. Another common type of malware delivery is phishing attacks.
These are emails sent from a supposedly legitimate source which attempt to dupe you into clicking on a malicious link. Many malware attacks often use a command-and-control server that allows cyber criminals to communicate with the infected systems, steal sensitive information and control the compromised system.
As each form of malware is the different and has its own way of infecting computers and stealing data, each type requires a different method of removal. First of all when it comes to phishing emails, education is key, you must learn to look out for the warning signs, it if looks suspicious do not click on links or open attachments.
What different types of malware are there?
The following is a list of common types of malware:
- Virus: The clue is in its biological name. A computer virus works by attaching itself to clean files who then infect other clean files. They often spread like wildfire, deleting files and destroying a system’s functionality.
- Ransomware: This kind of malware locks down your computer, encrypts your files and demands a ransom to retrieve your data.
- Trojans: Just like the tale from Greek mythology, this malware disguises itself as trusted program. It usually acts discretely by creating holes in your security to let other malicious software in.
- Botnets: These are networks of infected computers that work together under the control of a cybercriminal.
- Spyware: This type of malware is designed to spy on your activity. It discretely watches what you do online, in attempt to steal sensitive information like credit card details and passwords.
- Worms: This malware infects entire networks, either locally or across the internet. It uses each machine to infect more and more.
How can we help?
Here at Equilibrium we are a Cyber Essentials Certification body, CREST certified penetration testers and Cisco Partners with an Advanced Security Accreditation. As credible and highly qualified security experts, we are very well placed to offer Cyber Security advice on how to reduce the risk of cyber-attacks.
- CREST and OSCP certified penetration testers
- Long-established Cyber Essentials certification body
- Industry knowledge and partnerships with best-of-breed security vendors
- Proven track record of safeguarding businesses of all industries and sizes
Frequently Asked Questions
We could tell you that we are highly qualified experts, with over 20 years’ experience in the Cyber Security industry. Or that we have a proven track record of implementing effective Cyber Security strategies for NHS trusts, financial organisations, high-street retailers and SME’s.
But we want to show how we stand out from the crowd.
You’re probably more interested in how we can supercharge your security strategy and launch you above and beyond your Cyber Security goals.
Our team are the driving force of your security initiatives. By partnering with us, we don’t just protect your data. We stand with you in the fight against cyber-crime. Our experts are on-hand to help you stay ahead of the curve and build a Cyber Security culture which is part of your company’s fabric.
Should you choose a general IT provider to handle your security, or partner with a dedicated Cyber Security specialist? Whilst a general IT provider may well be the cheaper option, would you trust a dentist to conduct heart surgery, if they were offering the service for half the price?
When it comes to the security of your business, second-rate protection is simply not an option. By partnering with experienced security experts, you can rest assured that your security is in safe, experienced, and dependable hands, and have far less sleepless nights!
We’re not a jack of all trades like a general IT provider. We’re experts in our field and specialise specifically in Cyber Security. The core foundations of Equilibrium were built by technical experts with a background in network security. Which means we don’t simply resell a security product and let the fancy tech do the talking. We know our stuff and have the skillset and experience to prove it.
For us, communication is key to building strong security partnerships. We are told this is a fundamental part of why our customers choose us over our competitors. We pride ourselves on being good listeners, never leaving you in the dark and always taking time to understand the inner workings of your business.
Relax we’ve got this. As an extension of your team, we’re there to offer our extensive industry knowledge, provide innovative solutions and be the driving force of your security strategy.
We’re not a supplier who needs handholding. We’re the helping hand. We understand the importance of having a security partner you can trust to get the job done, on-time and in-budget.
We have an eye for the finer details. For us, it is all about dotting the i’s and crossing the t’s when it comes to the security of your brand.
By combining our technical expertise with our dedication to helping you achieve your Cyber Security goals, we help to leverage your security capability to new heights.