Trojan malware can be hidden in any number of places. Trojans are crafted to masquerade as harmless files to lure unsuspecting victims into clicking and opening them like its ancient Greek namesake.
From there, malicious code hides within and attempts to steal data, access systems, and more. They can also control computers as part of a botnet that launches distributed denial-of-service attacks.
Backdoor Trojans
Backdoor Trojans are the most dangerous type of malware because they provide hackers unrestricted access to a device, enabling them to spy on the user, steal valuable information and install other malware files. Installing antivirus software with real-time protection against these malicious programs is essential.
The good news is that, unlike other malware, backdoor Trojans do not reproduce by infecting more files once they’ve gained entry to a computer system. They also do not require any additional privileges to operate. Typically, they can remain on an infected device for months without being detected.
Moreover, these malware programs are easy to hide because they look legitimate and act like legitimate software. Consequently, they can be easily bundled with other free software and files users download online.
This is how inattentive users may unknowingly run backdoors that come as attachments to emails or alongside downloaded files on a file-sharing service. Once these malicious programs are executed, they can allow a hacker access to a user’s system and conduct various cyberattacks, including data breaches, ransomware attacks, crypto-jacking tools, and even more sophisticated APTs.
Downloader virus
Often called “ransomware Trojans,” downloader trojans infect devices by downloading and installing other malware. They can also encrypt data, demand payment for their return, and spy on device activities to collect user info.
Cybercriminals commonly use email to deliver these threats. They create a generic email message that looks like it carries crucial information, such as bills, a document from work, an order confirmation, or a personal picture. Then, they attach the infected file to the message and send it to their targets.
Once downloaded, a downloader trojan establishes a connection to a remote server that contains additional malware payloads. It then initiates the malicious activities it was designed for, such as corrupting files or monitoring keyboard input.
But there is trojan virus removal you could try to protect your technology. You can save your computer or mobile device against these threats by updating operating systems and software programs as soon as updates are available from the manufacturer. It’s also important to back up files regularly. In addition, never visit unsafe websites or download freeware from unreliable sources. Finally, you can keep your devices safe by turning off startup items and programs you don’t know or remember installing.
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Rootkit Virus
Rootkit Trojans provide hackers with many routes into machines and ways to steal data. Using memory rootkits that hide in a machine’s RAM, these types of malware can intercept system calls and manipulate data to evade detection. These programs consume computer resources and reduce performance, so a good antivirus program is vital to detect them.
These malware tools are sometimes called the Swiss Army knives of malicious software because of their multiple capabilities. They can steal login credentials and financial data, turn off security protocols, spoof domains to attack websites, gain remote systems control, and more.
Rootkits can be challenging to remove because they often have defense mechanisms that prevent users from installing and removing security solutions. To get rid of them, the user may have to back up and erase their device, wipe the BIOS and reinstall the operating system. Some advanced rootkits can even hide in the BIOS and require a replacement motherboard. When a rootkit is removed, monitoring the system closely for unusual activity and signs of reinfection is essential.
Banking Trojans
Known as malware that steals online banking credentials, Banking Trojans are a high-profile threat that has grown in scope and technical ability since they emerged in the mid-noughties. Their primary objective is to access online banking login details and other information processed through electronic payment systems, including credit or debit cards.
Bankers have learned to harden their systems to the point that it became challenging to attack banks directly, so cyber criminals pivoted to targeting customers instead. Banking malware gets to end-user devices mainly through spam, phishing, advertising, drive-by downloads, or social engineering techniques.
The infamous Zeus, SpyEye, and Emotet are examples of banking Trojan families. The malware developers continually modify their code to escape detection by antivirus and antimalware solutions.
For example, an underground as “professional-grade banking malware” includes an interceptor that sends all text messages to a number under the attacker’s control. This feature enables the malware to bypass two-factor authentication, swap IBANs, monitor device screens, and steal login credentials. This data is used to carry out fraudulent transactions on the victim’s account.
SMS Trojans
SMS Trojans attack the messaging services of mobile devices and intercept text messages. These attacks are often undetected until huge phone bills appear or credit vanishes from the device.
Hackers use Trojans to gain access to your sensitive and personal data, including financial information, online banking login id and passwords, instant messenger credentials, and more. They use these stolen credentials to conduct unauthorized transactions or steal your money.
Unlike viruses, which replicate and execute independently, hackers must run Trojan malware. This is why these malicious programs can be found in apps that appear harmless. They may even be in apps with legitimate functions, such as an instant messenger or social media.
Choose apps only from official app stores to protect your device from Trojans and other types of malware. Always keep your phone’s operating system up to date as well. Also, install a credible antivirus solution to detect and eliminate hybrid malware with Trojan horse attributes.
