Have you ever thought that your computer or mobile can be in more danger than just being hacked? Nowadays malware has become so clever that it does not just harm you by stealing your data, but can do even bigger damage by changing your data. In this article, we will learn about those 8 types of malware that are experts in “changing data”.
1. Ransomware
Ransomware is one of the most notorious malware nowadays. It locks your files by entering your device. Then it asks you for ransom. But do you know? Some ransomware does not just lock the files but also changes them. For example, changing the content of one of your word files so that you cannot trust whether it is the original file or not.
Prevention:
Always keep a backup of your important data.
Update antivirus and firewall regularly.
2. Trojan Horse
Trojan, as the name suggests, is a “deceptive” malware. It looks like a legitimate program but its real intention is to enter your system and change the data. For example, it can tamper with the information related to your bank account.
New fact:
Do you know? Some Trojans can also change personal chats, which can increase misunderstandings.
3. Spyware
The job of spyware is to keep an eye on your data. But it is not limited to just stealing data. It can also change your online form or transaction data. Imagine, you transferred ₹1000 and this malware turns it into ₹10,000?
Ways to prevent this:
4. Adware
Adware usually displays a lot of advertisements on your screen. But some adware has become so dangerous that it changes your browser settings. Sometimes it even changes your search results so that you trust the wrong information.
5. Rootkit
Rootkit is a malware that hides in the deep layers of the system and changes data. It especially targets security software. For example, it can change the log files of your antivirus so that you do not know that the system has been infected.
6. Wiper
This malware is the most dangerous. It not only deletes the data but also changes it in such a way that recovery becomes almost impossible.
Special information:
Wiper malware was used in a cyber attack on a big bank in 2012. It caused a loss of crores.
7. Botnet
Botnet is used for large-scale cyber attacks. It can turn your computer into a “bot” and share wrong data.
How to identify?
8. Firmware Attack
Firmware attack is directly related to the hardware of your device. It can change your data in such a way that the device itself becomes unusable.
General measures to avoid malware:
- Use updated software.
- Do not open unknown email attachments.
- Use strong antivirus software.
- Keep two-factor authentication on.
Final Thoughts:
As technology becomes more convenient, so do the threats. So it is important to stay alert and informed. Do you have any experience on this topic? Let us know in the comments!
