Computer Worms!!!
Just like earthworms, they keep on increasing by itself…
What these are in actual?
A computer worm is a threat that spreads numerous copies of itself into several computers without the need for any external software or human interaction.
Processing of computer worms—
These worms may arrive along with spam emails or instant messages and can also be transmitted through software vulnerabilities. When these spam emails are opened, it may take us to malicious link or automatically download the worm upon clicking which gets unnoticed and corrupt the system.
Worms can modify, delete files, add another malicious software, deplete system resources like hard drive space or bandwidth. Moreover, these are also eligible in stealing private data, installing a backdoor and enabling attacker to hack the system.
Example of computer worm—
Stuxnet; a most famous and the very first computer worm took place in Iran in July 2010. It was founded by two security researchers. It was actually much more complex than their imagination. That’s why security specialist including Liam O’Murchu and Eric Chien of STAR (Security Technology and Response) at Symantec developed their interest. Their thorough research of Stuxnet brought the conclusion that it was used to target Iranian power plant. Their ultimate goal was to sabotage nuclear weapon production. Though the attack is nullified, yet it is active on the threat landscape.
How to identify if there is any worm on your computer?
If you have any doubt regarding computer worm, then scan your system without any delay. If your scanning shows virus-free PC, then reassure yourself by following below written steps:
- Check your hard drive space; if it is filling then it can be assumed that worms are creating its copies.
- Check the speed and performance of your system; if it happens so that means worms are reducing the processing power.
- Lookout for the lost or new files; as worms can delete or replace files on the computer.
Protection against computer worms—
Just follow these steps to protect your system against worms:
- Your computer OS and applications must be up-to-date. If you don’t have one, then install them as soon as possible.
- Beware of spams as they may contain malicious links. Be wise enough to differentiate between the fake and true email.
- Invest in good internet security software to block such kind of activity and to protect your system from various threats.
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