We’ve had a large assortment of malicious malware attacks surface this year.
And some are even attacking our mobile devices.
The Inquirer uncovered a list of the largest malware attacks, and we’ve provided the best ways to avoid threats to everyday devices and platforms for the future:
CryptoLocker
Attack Medium: Email
This class of attacks started back in 2013. Since then, similar attacks like CryptoWall and TorrentLocker have spawned and cost victims millions of dollars. Through email attachments, CryptoLocker spread and compromised network drives through RSA public-key cryptography. Messages from the malware commanded payments within a certain time period to “decrypt data.” The attack caused over $3 million in total losses to email users.
How to avoid attacks to email accounts
- Review and modify your email account’s security settings. Optimize filter and spam settings.
- Create a strong password that contains multiple numbers, letters, and special characters.
- Be wary of opening emails and attachments from contacts you are unfamiliar with.
Choose The Best Security Solutions For Your Business – Start Here
Dogspectus
Attack Medium: Mobile Devices
Older Android devices experienced malware attacks with Dogspectus. After a security company discovered malicious Javascript spreading through an Android phone, which was caused by a faulty mobile advertisement, researchers found that this attack was even more malicious than it seemed from the surface. This invasion was the first of its kind to install virus-ridden mobile applications without user interaction, causing advanced damage to these devices.
How to avoid attacks to mobile devices
- Regularly update and upgrade your phone to receive the latest security advancements.
- Review and modify your phone’s security settings.
Peyta
Attack Medium: Computers
It took the creation of an entirely new algorithm to defeat this vicious threat to Windows operating systems. The attack compromised low-level disk structures by embedding them with an encrypted kernel. The malware dug deep enough into computers to hinder the ability to boot their Windows desktops. Like CryptoLocker and its spawns, this attack also distributes messages to users to release the attack.
How to avoid attacks to your computer
- Do not send money to unverified companies/sources.
- If you detect malware, turn your computer off immediately and get it serviced.
Note: Your firewall/virus protection software should be the only source delivering messages about threats to your computer.
And of course, the best way to avoid attacks on your devices is to create a strong security strategy with OSG’s experienced IT professionals.
