G 0.39 Malware

Malware is software that was developed for the purpose of executing undesired and usually harmful functions. Typical types of malware include, among others, viruses, worms, and Trojan horses. Malware is usually active secretly, without the knowledge and consent of users.

Malware nowadays provides attackers with extensive communication and control capabilities and possesses a variety of functions. Among other things, malware can deliberately extract passwords, remotely control systems, disable security software, and spy on data.

The damage here includes, in particular, the loss or falsification of information or applications of the greatest significance. However, the loss of reputation and the financial damage that can result from malware are also of great importance.

Examples:

• In the past, the malware W32/Bugbear spread in two ways: it searched local networks for computers with shares that had write access, and copied itself to them. It also sent itself as an HTML email to the email addresses in the address book of infected computers. Due to a flaw in the HTML routine of certain email programs, the malware was executed there when the message was opened without any further action by the receiving person.
• The malware W32/Klez spread in various variants. Infected computers sent the virus to all email addresses in the computer’s address book. Once this virus had infected a computer, it prevented the installation of virus protection programs through continuous manipulation of the operating system, which made disinfection of the infected computers considerably more difficult.