The most common malware attacks of 2018
In 2018, the most common malware attacks were ransomware, business email compromise (BEC), and cryptocurrency mining. Other notable mentions include attacks that targeted the healthcare and education sectors, as well as hotel and hospitality businesses.
Ransomware
Ransomware continues to be a major threat to businesses and individuals alike. In 2018, there were a number of high-profile ransomware attacks, such as the WannaCry attack that hit the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), as well as attacks on the City of Atlanta, the PGA of America, and Covenant Health. Ransomware attacks are often initiated through phishing emails, which trick users into clicking on a malicious link or attachment. Once the malware is on a system, it can quickly encrypt files, making them inaccessible to the victim. The attacker then demands a ransom, typically in cryptocurrency, in order to decrypt the files.
Business Email Compromise (BEC)
BEC attacks are a type of email fraud in which attackers impersonate a high-level executive or other authority figure in order to trick employees into transferring funds or sensitive information. In 2018, there were a number of high-profile BEC attacks, including attacks on Facebook, Google, and LinkedIn. BEC attacks often use spear-phishing emails, which are carefully targeted emails that appear to come from a legitimate source. These emails can be difficult to spot, which is why it’s important to be aware of the signs of a BEC attack.
Cryptocurrency Mining
Cryptocurrency mining is a process in which individuals use their computing power to verify and add transactions to the blockchain, and in return, they are rewarded with cryptocurrency. In 2018, cryptocurrency mining malware became a popular way for attackers to make money. The malware is typically installed on a victim’s system without their knowledge and can use a significant amount of computing power, which can result in high electricity bills. In some cases, the victim’s system may become so slowed down by the mining process that it becomes unusable.
Other Notable Malware Attacks
In addition to ransomware, BEC, and cryptocurrency mining malware, there were a number of other notable malware attacks in 2018. These include attacks that targeted the healthcare and education sectors, as well as hotel and hospitality businesses.
The healthcare sector was hit by a number of malware attacks in 2018, including the SamSam ransomware attack on the City of Atlanta’s healthcare system and the NotPetya attack on Merck, a pharmaceutical company. The education sector was also hit by malware, with the 2018 Dexphoto data breach affecting over 15 million students and faculty members at educational institutions around the world.
The hotel and hospitality sector was also targeted by malware attacks in 2018. One notable attack was the “card skimming” attack on Hyatt Hotels, which resulted in the theft of credit and debit card information from guests.
While these are some of the most notable malware attacks of 2018, it’s important to note that any type of businesses or individual can be a target. Malware attacks can have a significant financial and reputational impact, which is why it’s important to be aware of the risks and take steps to protect yourself..Reference
The impact of malware on society
Malware is a type of software that is designed to harm or disrupt a computer system. malware can be used to steal personal information, damage files, or even take control of a victim’s computer. Malware can be spread through email attachments, rogue websites, or even via social media links.
While malware can be used for malicious purposes, it can also be used for political or ideological goals. In some cases, malware is used to target a specific individual or organization. In other cases, malware is used to launch a wider attacks against a government or society.
Malware can have a significant impact on society. In some cases, malware can be used to disable critical infrastructure, such as power plants or water treatment facilities. Malware can also be used totarget financial institutions and make it difficult for people to access their money.
Malware can also be used to disrupt elections. In 2016, malware was used to interfere with the US presidential election. Computers at the Democratic National Committee were infected with malware, and sensitive emails were leaked to the public. The malware used in this attack was designed to specifically target Windows systems.
Malware can also be used to spread false information. In 2017, a piece of malware called “Fake News Bot” was used to spread fake news stories on social media. This malware was designed to target specific keywords and then create and post fake news stories that contained those keywords.
Malware can have a significant impact on society. In some cases, it can be used to disable critical infrastructure or to interfere with elections. In other cases, it can be used to spread false information. Malware can also be used for more mundane purposes, such as stealing personal information or damaging files. Regardless of the specific purpose, malware can have a profound impact on individuals, organizations, and society as a whole.
Visit malwarezero.org to learn more about malware. Disclaimer: We used this website as a reference for this blog post.