Cyber threats are a real thing that everyone from students to big companies has to deal with. One of the main threats is malicious software. This is a general term for different types of harmful software designed to damage, steal data, or get unauthorized access to your device or network. Even with all the progress in cybersecurity, malicious code keeps spreading in different ways. Many of them stay effective for years.
1. Downloading programs from third-party websites
Among the various types of malware, unofficial websites offering free software remain a popular channel for spreading malicious code. Users looking for cracked versions of programs or plugins often encounter infected packages. One example of such malicious software is Bundlore. It spreads under the guise of useful programs, but instead:
- It installs intrusive browser extensions,
- It installs ads,
- Redirects you to questionable websites.
If you use a Mac, you may have noticed that sometimes FlashMall pop-ups appear that you cannot close in the usual way. This is often the result of a Bundlore infection. In this case, you should use proven tools that allow you to delete on Mac malicious software completely and without residue. You can use specialized utilities that not only remove infected items, but also help restore security settings. After such removal, it is important to audit the system. In particular,
- Check your browser extensions,
- Update your passwords,
- Enable two-factor authentication.
This strategy reduces the risk of reinfection and helps you better understand how you can prevent the download of malicious code in the future.
2. Phishing Emails
When answering the question “What is malware?”, it is impossible not to mention phishing as one of the oldest but still extremely effective methods of spreading malware. It can be compared to a modern trap in your mailbox. The user receives a seemingly legitimate email that looks like a message from a bank or, for instance, a support service. The text usually contains:
- A request to follow a link,
- A request to open an attachment.
This is how malicious software enters the system.
Many such emails use psychological tricks. They create panic or a sense of urgency. They also often appeal to the authority of the source. In other words, they try to scare you into thinking that your account will be blocked if you don’t click on the link immediately. Once you click, your device is infected. Now you’ve fallen victim to cybercriminals.
3. Third-party Plugins and Browser Extensions
Browser plugins can greatly simplify your work, but at the same time, they can be a source of danger. What does malware do? Some extensions can:
- Collect your personal data,
- View your browser history,
- Embed malware into the code of web pages.
Plugins that are not installed from the official store, but through ads and pop-ups, are especially dangerous.
4. Adware and Banners
Cybercriminals often create advertising campaigns that lead not to real products or services, but to infected websites. Sometimes even a single click on a banner can launch malware capable of stealing your information or turning your computer into part of a botnet. This method is known as malvertising. That is, malware + advertising.
Malicious banners are usually embedded in web pages through compromised ad networks. This means that even popular websites can accidentally display an infected banner. It automatically activates malicious code without any apparent interaction with the user.
5. Flash Drives. External Devices
Despite the development of cloud technologies, USB flash drives remain a common means of data transfer. That is why they are still a convenient tool for spreading various types of malware.
Vulnerable flash drives can automatically launch malicious code when you plug them into a computer. It’s especially dangerous in a corporate environment. One infected flash drive can spread malware across the whole company network.
6. Social networks. Messengers
Given the popularity of social platforms, attackers are increasingly using them as a channel for spreading. Users may receive a message from a friend asking if they are in a photo. After clicking on the link, the infection occurs immediately. It happens because the links often lead to fake pages where you are asked to log in via Facebook or Google. Once the data is entered, the attackers gain full access to the account. In some cases, the infection occurs through automatic file download. This is possible if your browser’s security warnings are disabled.
Summary
From phishing emails to infected flash drives, any of us can become a target for attacks without even realizing it. That’s why it’s crucial to not only know what is malware and what types of malware exist, but also understand how you can prevent the download of malicious code. This is now a vital skill in our century. Be careful with every click you make. Avoid unofficial sources. Check plugin permissions. Use modern antivirus solutions. This way, you can significantly reduce the risk of infection.