Malicious Code

Kondukto24 Jan 2025

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    Definition of Malicious Code

    Malicious Code refers to any software or script that is intentionally designed to cause harm, disrupt operations, steal data or compromise the security of a system. This can include viruses, worms, Trojan horses, ransomware, spyware, and other types of malware. Malicious code can be introduced through various means, such as email attachments, infected websites or compromised software.

    History of Malicious Code

    The concept of malicious code dates back to the early days of computing. The first known instance of a computer virus, known as the "Creeper virus”, appeared in the early 1970s. This was followed by the creation of the first antivirus program, "Reaper," which was designed to remove the Creeper virus.

    Significant milestones in the history of malicious code include:

    • 1980s: The emergence of more sophisticated viruses, such as the "Brain" virus, which was the first virus to target the IBM PC.
    • 1990s: The rise of internet connectivity led to the proliferation of worms and email-based viruses, such as the "Melissa" virus and the "ILOVEYOU" worm.
    • 2000s: The advent of more complex and damaging malware, including ransomware like "CryptoLocker" and advanced persistent threats (APTs) targeting specific organizations.
    • 2010s: The increasing use of mobile devices and the Internet of Things (IoT) introduced new vectors for malicious code, leading to the development of mobile malware and IoT-targeted attacks.

    Examples of Malicious Code in Practice

    Example 1: Viruses

    Malicious code that attaches itself to legitimate programs and spreads when the infected program is executed. For example, the "Melissa" virus spread through email attachments and caused widespread disruption in the late 1990s.

    Example 2: Worms

    Self-replicating malicious code that spreads across networks without user intervention. The "ILOVEYOU" worm, which spread via email in 2000, is a notable example.

    Example 3: Trojan Horses

    Malicious code disguised as legitimate software. For instance, the "Zeus" Trojan was used to steal banking information by masquerading as a legitimate application.

    Example 4: Ransomware

    Malicious code that encrypts a victim's data and demands payment for its release. The "WannaCry" ransomware attack in 2017 affected thousands of organizations worldwide.

    Example 5: Spyware

    Malicious code that secretly monitors and collects information about a user's activities. The "CoolWebSearch" spyware, which hijacked web browsers, is an example.

    • Malwarebytes: A leading provider of anti-malware software.
    • Symantec: A cybersecurity company offering solutions to protect against malicious code.
    • Kaspersky: A global cybersecurity company known for its antivirus and anti-malware products.
    • Norton: A well-known provider of antivirus and cybersecurity solutions.
    • McAfee: A cybersecurity company offering a range of products to protect against malicious code.

    Malware, Virus, Worm, Trojan Horse, Ransomware, Spyware, Advanced Persistent Threat (APT)