Computer viruses take pictures and steal codes

The latest research by NordLocker, reveals that between 2018 and 2020, a Trojan virus infected 3.25 million Windows-based computers, getting access to nearly 26 million logins (emails or usernames accompanied by passwords), more than 2 billion cookies and even 6.6 million files belonging to unaware users. The malware also took pictures, using the webcams of the infected devices.

“This virus is just the tip of the iceberg, as computer users are exposed to thousands of different malware types every day,” said Oliver Noble, a cybersecurity expert at NordLocker, a data protection solution. “An unimaginable amount of malicious code is compiled and sold on the dark web. Cybercriminals spread it and infect as many computers as possible in order to collect confidential data.”

The following are some of the basic ways a computer can catch a virus:

• Downloading illegal software. One of the most common ways to get a virus onto a machine, is downloading pirated or cracked software. A few examples of such downloads are illegal Adobe Photoshop, a Windows cracking tool or pirated games.

• Clicking on suspicious links. Phishing emails and social media scams are among the most popular methods hackers use to target internet users.

• Downloading shady attachments. Malicious viruses can slip into a device when downloading mail or text message attachments from unknown senders. Usually, they are disguised as documents such as invoices in PDF or another e-file format.

• Inserting unknown CDs and USB drives into a computer. Using removable media, especially if it belongs to someone else, to transfer files onto a computer, can pose risks, as it may be infected and spread a virus to the devices it gets attached to.

Having the right mindset is the first step toward security and privacy. That means staying alert online and while working on a computer offline.

Antivirus software is still one of the most reliable tools protecting a system from malware, and always verify the sender of an email and its contents before clicking on any links inside. Never download attachments included within an email if they were not expected.

Make sure to only acquire software from official websites or other reputable sources. To protect sensitive files stored on the computer from viruses, start encrypting them. Encryption software turns data into uncrackable codes that even skilled hackers can’t read.