While there are millions of different types of computer viruses that cybercriminals can employ to help them steal your confidential data, most computer viruses today can be taken care of by antivirus software or with the help of an IT expert like the ones from Next Hop Solutions. In order to help you better protect your important company information, their team has put together a list of some of the most common types of computer viruses that you should be aware of.
Learn how to prevent cyber security attacks.
1. Macro Viruses
One of the most common types of computer viruses are macro viruses which are designed to attach themselves to files that support shortcut codes that can be executed with a keystroke, such as Word documents and Excel spreadsheets. This type of computer virus is most commonly distributed through email attachments and will be activated once the infected file attachment is opened.
2. File-Infecting Viruses
File-infecting viruses are designed to compromise the files or data on a computer and network, as well as to disable security software on connected computers. Commonly attached to executable files (.com and .exe files), file-infecting viruses can overtake the program they are opened in and can spread to other similar files on a computer’s hard drive and network.
3. Browser Hijacking Viruses
Browser hijacking viruses can be used to take over certain features of a web browser—usually the homepage—and will overwrite the settings so that they cannot be changed. This type of virus is commonly used to try to generate revenue for the developers that designed them, as they will ask you to click on an ad or sign up for something in order to access the website you actually want to see.
4. Web Scripting Viruses
Web scripting viruses work by targeting popular websites by inserting links and videos that can install malicious software on a users’ computer if clicked on. While most web scripting viruses only show you text or visual ads in order to generate income for their creators, some web scripting viruses can steal your cookies and use the information to post content on the website on your behalf.
If you would like to learn more about the common types of computer viruses, or if you are interested in one of their IT services please contact Next Hop Solutions at 1-855-482-5141 or by requesting a consultation on their website. Their help desk is also available with extended hours to help you resolve any computer virus related issues.