Types of Malware : Viruses, Worms, Trojans and RATs

Malware analysis is very important and interesting topic in hacking. And that’s why I am here. Today, we will learn some basic types of computer malware like Viruses, Worms, Trojans etc. These terms have some common concepts in them. And that is why; these terms are confusing to some peoples. In this post, I will explain you the difference between these terms.

We will also learn about, some other terms like keyloggers, spywares, RATs etc. So let’s start.

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Types of Computer Malware

Virus

- In simple words, We can think of it  as a piece of code or any small malicious programs that has ability to perform malicious tasks in your computer like infecting files, removing files or slowing down your computer. They are able to replicate its copies. But, a virus activates only when we click on it. Viruses are sometimes attached to some executable program so that when victim execute the other program, virus automatically execute itself.

Short Definition “A program able to perform malicious activities in your computer when executed. A virus can replicate its copies from computer to computer.”

Worms

- Worms also have ability to replicate its copies. Sometimes it is considered as sub category of viruses. These worms spread with the help of email attachments. Worms doesn’t need victims interactions to work, in other words, they are executable which doesn’t need the victim to click on it. Worms mainly spread through computer to computer networks. Worms are sometime standalone executable.

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Trojan Horse

- Trojan Horses are also like viruses and worms.  They also spread through internet or email attachments. When installed in victim’s computer, they are able to perform task of both viruses and worms. One of the main differences of this type of malware is that authors of Trojan horse can also use it as standalone backdoor.  Trojans can also enter into your computer by exploiting any specific vulnerability.

RATs

- RAT stands for Remote Admin Trojan.  RATs are also standalone executable programs used to get remote access to victim’s pc. RATs usually spread through emails, social media or downloads. RATs are able to perform many tasks like taking screenshot, browsing files, getting shell, retrieving passwords etc. after getting remote access.

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Spywares

- Spyware are malicious programs like others but the main function of this type of malware is to spy on victims browsing history and then transfer it to the attacker. Spying on browsing habits of victims is its main task. Its spreading method is same as Trojans and worms. In simple words, Spywares used to spy on computer using habits of victim.

Keylogger

- Keylogger is kind of program that hackers usually use for password hacking.  A keylogger, when installed in computer, can be used to record all keystrokes from victim’s keyboard. Hackers prefer this for hacking username and passwords. Keylogger comes in both hardware and software.

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Countermeasures of Computer Malware

- Always keep your computer’s firewall enabled.

- Use updated version of antivirus.

- Always scan USB while plugging in.

- Do not open emails and download attachments from unknown person.

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So these are some common types of computer malwares used by hackers and other bad guys. These malwares mainly spread from social media sites, downloads from any website, emails etc. So be aware of frauds.  I hope you enjoyed reading this post. So share it.