adware

What is Adware?

Adware is short for advertising-supported software. Adware is any software package which automatically plays, displays, or downloads advertisements to a computer after the software is installed on it or while the application is being used. Some adware is bundled with legitimate software, and unless the user deselects the option to install it during the software’s installation process, they may be unaware that it has been installed. Once installed, the user may be unable to remove the adware without also uninstalling the legitimate software.

There are many types of adware, ranging from relatively innocuous programs that display ads in a web browser to more malicious programs that secretly track a user’s web browsing habits and transmit this information to third-party marketers. Adware can be annoying and intrusive, and in some cases, it can pose a security risk to the user’s computer.

How Does Adware Work?

Adware is usually installed on a user’s computer without their knowledge or consent. In some cases, adware may be bundled with legitimate software, and the user may be unaware that it has been installed. Once installed, adware may display advertisements in the form of pop-up windows or in-browser banners. It may also collect information about the user’s web browsing habits and transmit this information to third-party marketing companies.

Some types of adware are more malicious than others. Some adware programs may secretly track a user’s web browsing habits and transmit this information to third-party marketers. This type of adware is sometimes called “spyware.” Spyware can be difficult to detect and remove, and it can pose a serious security risk to the user’s computer.

How Can I Protect Myself From Adware?

There are several things you can do to protect yourself from adware. First, be sure to read the terms of service and privacy policy for any software you download or purchase. These documents should disclose any information about bundled adware or other tracking mechanisms. If you do not agree to the terms, do not install the software.

Second, be sure to install and run a reputable anti-spyware program on your computer. Anti-spyware programs can detect and remove many types of adware, including spyware.

Finally, be cautious about clicking on advertisements, especially pop-up ads. Some adware is designed to automatically install itself on a user’s computer when the user clicks on an ad. If you see a pop-up ad that you did not expect to see, do not click on it..More information

ransomware

Ransomware is a type of malicious software that threatens to publish the victim’s data or perpetually block access to it unless a ransom is paid.

When victims clicked on infected advertisements or email attachments, they inadvertently allowed malicious software to download and encrypt their files. The attackers then demand a ransom, usually in Bitcoin, to provide the key that will decrypt the files. In some cases, the victim’s data is actually exfiltrated and only promised to be returned if the ransom is paid.

The names of some of the more notorious ransomware families include WannaCry, Locky, and Petya/NotPetya.

WannaCry was particularly notable because it used a then-unknown exploit developed by the U.S. National Security Agency to spread itself quickly across unpatched Windows machines. The attack ended up infecting more than 230,000 computers in over 150 countries and caused billions of dollars in damage.

Locky, on the other hand, is a ransomware-as-a-service operation. That means anyone can pay to use the Locky code to create their own ransomware and keep a percentage of whatever they manage to extort from victims.

Petya/NotPetya was notable for masquerading as legitimate software updates before encrypting a victim’s hard drive. It also used EternalBlue, the same NSA-developed exploit that WannaCry employed, to spread across corporate networks.

Ransomware attacks have been on the rise in recent years as more and more people and organizations store sensitive data on computers and connected devices. The payouts can be significant, and even small organizations can be hit hard by ransomware demands.

There’s no surefire way to protect your data from ransomware, but there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk. These includepatching your software, using strong anti-malware protection, and backing up your data regularly.

All material on this site was made with malwarezero.org as the authority reference. Click here for more.