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Among the many types of threats out there, script-based malware attacks stand out.
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How Can Hackers Use Scripts to Deploy Malware Attacks?
Hackers, on the other hand, use scripts for malicious purposes including the deployment of malware attacks.
To do this, hackers write scripts that download or install malware when the script is run.
These scripts are typically written in common programming languages like JavaScript, Python, or PowerShell.
A good real-world example of script-based malware is the I Love You virus.
The virus caused an estimated $8.7 billion in damages worldwide.
More recently, the hacker group Vice Society has used malicious scripts to greater effect.
Vice Society uses automated scripts that specifically target sensitive data, which they then put up for ransom.
They have victims all over the world and their attacks are ongoing.
These instances illustrate the destructive nature of script-based malware attacks, and therefore the need for effective protective measures.
Once youve chosen your antivirus, follow the instructions to download and install it on your rig.
press the Full Scan option to do this (all my recommended antivirusesoffer full system scan options).
I recommend that you remove everything that gets flagged.
But, in my experience, its best to trust the antivirus and get rid of everything.
Even then, you still cant be sure your gear is perfectly clean.
Some scripts can be particularly tricky and replicate as your machine boots up.
To be sure this hasnt happened, run a second scan.
In the controls of your antivirus software, ensure that real-time protection is turned on.
Avoid opening emails from unfamiliar sources and never download attachments or choose links within these emails.
Some antiviruses offer specific protection against email-based threats.
For instance,Nortonprovides a spam filter feature that automatically filters out spam emails.
It also allows you to create exclusion lists for emails you trust while blocking malicious or suspicious emails.
If youre worried about nasty scripts, you should do this regularly.
A premium antivirus with real-time protection should keep you secure, but its better to be safe than sorry.
Step 8: Monitor System Processes
Get familiar with the normal processes running on your rig.
If you notice a process that seems suspicious, look it up online to determine whether its potentially malicious.
Most operating systems have built-in utilities that allow you to view active processes.
On Windows, the task manager is accessed by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc simultaneously.
Step 9: modernize your Software
Lastly, ensure all of your software is always up-to-date.
Updates typically include the latest defenses against new threats, including evolving script-based malware.
Allow your antivirus to automatically update.
Other programs also need to be regularly updated to ensure they arent compromised by the newest vulnerabilities.
Many antiviruses also contain vulnerability scanners that can look for and automatically update outdated software for you.
Free antivirus softwarecan provide a basic level of protection against various types of malware, including malicious scripts.
These programs can be beneficial if youre on a tight budget or youre only looking for minimal protection.
So they can certainly help mitigate the risks posed by malicious scripts.
However, free antivirus software often falls short when compared to paid alternatives.
This can leave your rig vulnerable to more sophisticated attacks.
Malicious scripts can infiltrate your system through various methods, often exploiting your daily digital activities.
The consequences of a system infected with script-based malware can be severe, impacting both individual users and organizations.
Here are some effective strategies to safeguard your system:
Can Script-Based Malware Infect Mobile Devices?
Yes, script-based malware can indeed infect mobile devices, including iOS and Android.
Android devices, on the other hand, are particularly susceptible to such threats due to their open-source nature.
They can cause a ton of issues, ranging from data theft to system performance issues.
Attackers embed scripts into seemingly harmless files or web pages.
For instance, a script might be hidden in a Word document or PDF file attached to an email.
How do script kiddies use malware?
What is malicious code?
Malicious code is a program or piece of codeintended to perform unauthorized actionsthat harm or compromise a system.
What is script execution?
Script execution refers to the process where a system interprets and runs a script.
What is script-based malware?
Script-based malware is a form of malware where the harmful payload is delivered via a script.
These scripts can be coded directly into web pages, embedded into documents, or sent as email attachments.
