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Virus Removal & Protection

Malware Virus Definition and its Origin

Malware Virus is defined as a harmful application that pretends to be useful software. Malware virus existed long even before the term “malware” was used.

Where Malware Virus Definition is Derived

Malware virus definition has its roots in the words “mal” which means “bad” and “software” which means “a computer program”. Today, the malware virus definition is “any software with a harmful intent on the computer.”

In 1949, Jon Von Neumann’s “Theory of Organization of Complicated Automata” introduced the idea of malware virus. It discussed how organisms self-reproduce.

In the year 1950, Bell Labs applied Jon Von Neumann’s theory on a game they created called “Core Wars.” The object of the game was to produce a program that would compete against another program within a virtual computer.

It wasn’t until 1970 that a malware virus was born accidentally. A BBN Engineer Robert Thomas created a program Creeper. It had no malicious intent but it was able to self-replicate while traveling from one computer to another.

Years later, malware virus intended to destroy computer data and steal information were created. This further established the malware virus definition.

Different Types of Malware Virus

1. Computer Virus

Is malware that spreads in the computer by self-replication. Computer Virus must be executed before it’s activated unlike the other type of malware that can spread without running it first. We’ll talk about it later.

2. Ransomware

Is malware that encrypts computer files. Ransomware malware virus definition is derived from the word “ransom”. Just as the name implies, the user must pay the ransom the hacker demands to restore the encrypted files.

3. Rootkit

Has the ability to install the tools the hacker needs to gain full access on the computer. Rootkit can also record logins and password by monitoring the keystrokes on the keyboard. This ability makes Rootkit one of the most dangerous malware.

4. Spyware

Spyware malware virus definition is rooted in the word “spy”. Spyware sneaks on the user’s computer to collect personal information and sends it to the hacker. Spyware works secretly in the background, making it hard to detect it.

5. Worm

A Worm is malware that needs not to be executed before it spreads in the computer. When it enters the computer, it self-replicates independently. It overcrowds the computer and network that leads in a critical error.

6. Trojan Horse

Trojan Horse malware virus definition originated from the classic Trojan War story. A seemingly harmless wooden horse was allowed inside the kingdom that led to the fall of Troy. Similarly, Trojan Horse pretends to be a harmless file with a secret intent to destroy a computer.

7. Adware

Adware is often a part of a pirated software. Once installed, Adware auto- generates ads and pop-ups. They fill the monitor that finishing up a task becomes impossible.

8. Bot

Is malware with various functions. It’s because of BOT that some websites require CAPTCHA to verify if the user is human because BOT can pretend to be a search engine keyword to steal server information.

9. KeyLogger

KeyLogger malware virus definition is a software that records passwords and logins by monitoring the keys pressed on the keyboard. Keylogger loads before the operating system, making it unnoticeable.

How is Malware Virus Installed

Malware virus can be installed in various ways. Below are the ways hackers use to spread malware.

1. Spam

Hackers have been using spam emails to spread malware. It may seem to be a valid email but it contains an infected link. Avoid opening an attachment from an anonymous sender.

2. Fake Installer or Update

This is what Trojan Horse is often disguised as. It pretends to be a helpful program with a destructive character. Hackers have been using fake installers that have deceived many users into installing malware on their computer.

Verify the publisher first before installing an application.

3. Non-Secure websites

These are the website loaded with ads and pop-ups. Since they have low-security features, hackers can easily add an infected ad, link, or download. It’s recommended to visit credible websites to avoid downloading malware virus.

Malware continues to evolve as technology advances. Soon, another type of malware may appear and we may have another malware virus definition. With all the possibilities, one thing is sure, malware is harmful to the computer. An advanced security is needed to prevent malware attacks.