Here at IntelliTeK we make web security a number one priority and we have come up with a list of the top five least wanted malware and how to defend yourself against them.
Firstly, let’s define what Malware is – Malware is an abbreviated term derived from “malicious software”. Malicious software that is specifically designed to infect a users’ computer and inflict harm in multiple ways. Malware can infect computers in many ways and in different forms.
Remote Access Trojan (RAT)
A malware program that includes a backdoor for administrative control over the target computer. RATs are usually downloaded invisibly with a user requested program such as a .exe or an email attachment.
Botnet
When computers with internet access have been unknowingly setup to forward harmful transmissions onto other computers on the internet. Harmful transmissions include spam or viruses.
Browser-based Malware
A trojan horse installed on a computer with the intention of recording a users’ web transactions as they happen in real-time. Popular methods of extraction include key-loggers.
POS Malware
A malicious software expressly written to steal payment data – especially credit card data – from retail checkout.
Ransomware
Computer software that restricts access to files and demands a ransom payment before getting access back to the said files. However, as we learnt from the Wannacry outbreak, sometimes even post-payment the files are no longer able to be recovered.
So how do we defend ourselves from malware infiltration?
Awareness
With the increase in technology playing a bigger part of our daily lives we must all be aware of the threats to our safety and well-being when using technology. There are various online and offline phishing and web awareness training available as well as helpful tips from articles around the Internet.
Backup
An essential component of defence is to back and backup regularly. It is especially important to keep offline backups, encrypt backups and automate backups – schedule regular backups depending on the data.
Get Good Protection
At IntelliTeK we don’t believe in a one size fits all solution. We know that installing a simple antivirus isn’t the solution to defend yourself from Malware. We recommend having more layers of security – there’s a greater chance multiple layers of protection may catch an advanced threat than a single layer. To break it down you should have the best Firewall, Intrusion Prevention System, AntiVirus, AntiSpam, Reputation Services and APT Protection. In conjunction with leading partner vendors such as WatchGuard and Sophos, we have kept clients happy since 2007 and ensured their security is our number one priority.
IntelliTeK is one of the fastest growing IT service providers that you will find on any list of managed service providers in Australia. We are always up to date with the latest threats to emails and IT security which is why we only partner with the best in the industry. If your company isn’t fully equipped to fend off cyber criminals, then get in touch with us so we can discuss your options. Call us on 1300 768 779, email us at info@intellitek.com.au, fill out the web form, or have a Live Chat with us below.