Malware

Your latest cybersecurity education video on defining threat actors and possible attacks gave the CIO a brilliant idea. She wants you to create a training guide on the various forms of malware to help train junior technicians in the IT department.

Create a table that compares common malware attack types (web application attacks) and purposes (backdoors, trojans, viruses, ransomware, intrusions, and wireless attacks). Include at least ten malware attack types and their characteristics in your table (including DOS and DDOS attacks and bots).

Full Answer Section

    Additional Details
  • Web application attacks are a type of cyberattack that targets web applications. Web applications are programs that run on a web server and allow users to access data and perform tasks over the internet. Web application attacks can be used to steal sensitive data, such as credit card numbers and passwords, or to gain access to systems behind the web application.
  • Backdoors are a type of malware that creates a hidden entrance to a system. Backdoors can be used by attackers to gain access to a system at any time, without having to go through the normal authentication process.
  • Trojans are a type of malware that disguises itself as a legitimate program. Trojans are often spread through email attachments or malicious websites. Once installed, Trojans can perform a variety of malicious actions, such as stealing data, installing other malware, or disrupting system operations.
  • Viruses are a type of malware that can self-replicate and spread to other computers. Viruses are often spread through email attachments, removable media devices, or shared networks. Once infected, a computer can spread the virus to other computers by sending out infected emails or by connecting to shared networks.
  • Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts a victim's files and demands a ransom payment in exchange for the decryption key. Ransomware is often spread through email attachments or malicious websites. Once infected, a victim's files are encrypted and they cannot access them until they pay the ransom.
  • Intrusions are attempts to gain unauthorized access to a system or network. Intrusions can be carried out using a variety of methods, such as brute-force attacks, phishing attacks, and zero-day attacks.
  • Wireless attacks are cyberattacks that target wireless networks and devices. Wireless attacks can be used to steal data, gain access to systems, or disrupt wireless networks.
Conclusion Malware is a serious threat to businesses and individuals alike. By understanding the different types of malware and how they are spread, you can take steps to protect yourself and your organization from attack.  

Sample Answer

   
Malware Attack Type Purpose Example
Web application attacks To exploit vulnerabilities in web applications and gain access to sensitive data or systems. SQL injection, cross-site scripting, and remote code execution
Backdoors To create a hidden entrance to a system that can be used by an attacker to gain access at any time. Netcat, Metasploit, and Subterfuge
Trojans To disguise malicious software as a legitimate program in order to trick users into installing it. Emotet, Qbot, and TrickBot
Viruses To self-replicate and spread to other computers, causing damage to files and systems. Conficker, CryptoLocker, and WannaCry
Ransomware To encrypt a victim's files and demand a ransom payment in exchange for the decryption key. Ryuk, Maze, and REvil
Intrusions To gain unauthorized access to a system or network. Brute-force attacks, phishing attacks, and zero-day attacks
Wireless attacks To exploit vulnerabilities in wireless networks and devices in order to gain access or steal data. Man-in-the-middle attacks, denial-of-service attacks, and rogue access points