Virus Classification

How to classify various threats (viruses/spyware/malware...)?

Virus

A computer virus is a self-replicating program that spreads by inserting copies of itself into other executable code or documents and it behaves similary to a biological virus. There are hundereads and thousands of them in the world.

Worms

It is a similar program as a computer virus with the main ability to infect computers over the internet. Usually their main purpose is to attack certain web sites or to act as a Trojan horse.

Spyware

Spyware programs are installed on your computer without your knowledge. Spyware can steal your personal information and increase your risk of identity theft. Spyware can track and record your online activity (surfing habits). Spyware is downloaded to your PC as you surf websites, download files and read emails.

Adware

It is designed to display unwanted advertising on your computer and can really slow your PC down.

Keyloggers

Such software can record every keystroke you make on your computer. Therefore it can steal your passwords and other personal data.

Browser hijackers

This little tools will change your home page in Web browsers and search results.

Trojan horses

They are also called Remote Access Trojans or RATs and allow an attacker to remotely control your computer.

Malware

This is short for malicious software/threats and is typically used as a catch-all term to refer to any software designed to cause damage to a single computer, server or computer network, whether it's a virus, spyware, trojan horse...

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