Computer Support Blog

The number one cause for concern among Internet security and computer repair experts is malware.  A little known threat just a few years ago, these malicious programs can slip past Internet security and bring on extensive computer repair costs.

But what is malware?

Malware involves several different kinds of programs:

• Trojan Horses
• Rootkits
• Viruses / Worms
• Data Thieves

These different programs work together to thwart Internet security and often cause enough damage to require significant computer repair.

The Trojan Horse is a common method of malware delivery, designed to bypass Internet security by hiding malicious programs within something desirable, tricking a user into allowing it access.

To remain effective, malware must remain invisible to Internet security programs or computer repair technicians trying to diagnose a problem.

A rootkit is a process that hides malware from view.   A computer repair technician can monitor all the process that keep a computer running, but a rootkit modifies the operating system to keep the malware from showing up as a process.

Some rootkits can thwart all but the most advanced Internet security or computer repair efforts by continuously restoring malware, even after it’s been deleted.

Successfully delivered and disguised, the malware can do its job, which can vary from one program to the next.

Viruses and Worms are the most destructive threats in terms of computer repair.  They do the most significant damage and spread from computer to computer.  Both can leave behind other forms of malicious programs even after they’ve spread to another system.

In most cases, what’s left behind is a Data Thief.  These types of malware pose less threat of destruction, but a far greater risk to your Internet security.

These programs are extremely sneaky, difficult to remove without some level of computer repair, and can be exceptionally costly.

Data thieves come in several varieties.  Backdoors create openings in a computer system and its Internet security, allowing easier entry and attack.  KeyLoggers allow hackers and thieves to log the keystrokes made on a computer, giving them access to all typed information.

Dialers are programs that create Internet or phone connections for the purposes of dialing premium numbers which are charged to the computer’s user, creating profit for the hackers.

Most frighteningly, many of these programs can do their work without leaving any noticeable trace.  Some are even nearly undetectable to computer repair and Internet security experts.

Understanding the exact dangers of malware can help you protect yourself, keep your Internet security intact, and avoid costly computer repairs.

About RESCUECOM:

RESCUECOM provides computer repair and computer support, 24/7: Meeting every tech support need including data recovery, virus removal, networking, wireless services, and computer support for all brands of hardware and software. For computer support or information on products, services, or computer repair, visit https://www.rescuecom.com or call 1-800-RESCUE-PC.

For More Information, Contact:

David Milman, CEO

315-882-1100

david@rescuecom.com

Filed under: computer repair, Internet, Internet Security, Malware, security, spyware, tips, virus