Software Threats to a Computer System

1. Software Threats to a Computer System

2. Malware • Malware: Is malicious software that’s specifically developed to infiltrate or cause damage to computer systems without the owners knowing or giving permission. • NB: Malware operates similar to its biological counter-part, its number one objective is reproduction. Causing damage to a computer system, destroying data, or stealing sensitive data are all secondary objectives.

3. Types of Malware Threats • Virus: A virus refers to malicious code that spreads by copying it’s self to other files, boot sectors, or MBRs. • Virus Components • Replicator • Concealer • Payload

4. Worm • A self contained program that propagates across a network to infect hosts. A worm is capable of replicating with any user intervention. • Components • Penetration tool • Installer • Discovery mechanism • Scanner • Payload

5. Trojan Horse • A trojan horse is a program that appears to have some useful or benign purpose, but really masks some hidden malicious functionality • Components • Rename • Corrupt • Polymorphic Code

6. Adware/Spyware • Adware is software that creates pop-up advertisements without the user’s permission. Typically the way adware gets installed is by being a component of free software. • Spyware is software that collects information from your computer without your knowledge. Free software is notorious for having spyware as a payload, so reading the user agreement is very important.

7. Malware Counter Measures • Viruses: antivirus software, avoid opening unknown email attachments, limit or avoid promiscuous storage media. • Trojan Horses: antivirus, firewall, software updates and patches. • Adware/Spyware: Avoid freeware, read User agreement creafully when installing software, firewalls, avoid clicking on pop-Ups use ALT-F4 instead.