There are many types of computer attacks that can compromise security when surfing the Internet. It also happens when using any device. Today we are going to talk about one of them. We are going to explain what a Trojan is and what it does. In addition, we will give you tips on how to avoid this type of malware. In fact, we will give you indications so that security is always present and you don’t have any problem.
What is a Trojan
Foremost, let’s explain what exactly a Trojan consists of. Indeed, its name comes from the Trojan horse, since in this case, it is a malicious software that disguises itself as a legitimate file. It can be a text document, an image, or a program. In short, anything that pretends to be something secure, but in reality it is a security problem. Certainly, the principle of a Trojan is the same. That is, hiding malware inside a file that looks legitimate. However, not all of them have the same objective. Normally, an attacker will seek to take control of a computer in some way. In this way, he will be able to steal data or even sneak in other threats.
A Trojan can affect both computers and mobile devices. In addition, there are Trojans for different operating systems. It is a type of malware that has adapted over time. Therefore, cybercriminals meet their objectives in terms of stealing information or taking control of systems.
Examples of major Trojans are Zeus, Emotet, Petya or WannaCry. They have put numerous companies and also private users at risk. On the other hand, these types of attacks do not only affect home users, but also target important organizations.
What is its function and how does it affect
Trojans can have different functions and characteristics. In fact, not all act the same and not all are equally dangerous. Trojans can have different functions and characteristics. In fact, not all of them act the same and not all of them are equally dangerous. Let us explain what their main functions are. In addition, how it will affect the security of both home users and companies and organizations that are infected.
Create a back door
The first goal of a Trojan is to create a backdoor. This is one of the most common attacks that can occur. This door allows the attacker to gain some control or access to the device. For example, he will be able to sneak data, malicious files that obtain information, etc.
Usually, the victim does not quickly become aware of the problem. That is, there are no noticeable symptoms such as a malfunction at first. As a result, an attacker can have access to a system for a long time until he is discovered, so he has room to collect data.
Hidden downloads
There are also download Trojans. They aim to download content onto the computer without the victim’s permission. This will be done in a hidden way, through commands that have been previously programmed to carry out certain actions.
Usually, these hidden downloads are bundled with more malicious software. In addition, they can download viruses and other varieties of malware that affect security and privacy. For example, they could download a keylogger that steals the passwords that the victim puts on the computer.
Stealing information
Another clear function is to steal information from the infected computer. They can collect personal data from the victim, spy, collect browsing-related data. Moreover, programs used, files on the computer, etc. In short, they can steal all kinds of data.
This data can be used for different purposes. For example, they could be used to carry out personalized phishing attacks, to steal confidential data from a company or an organization. They can then sell it to competitors or even extort the data and threaten to make it public.
DDoS attacks
On the other hand, mention must also be made of DDoS or distributed denial of service attacks. A Trojan can launch such attacks to saturate a server. This way it can respond to legitimate requests that another user will make and find that it does not work.
Trojans can be designed for this purpose, and the objective here is to affect the smooth running of a company, for example. They can serve as a way to launch attacks that compromise computers because of launching multiple requests.
Tips to avoid this type of malware
As you have seen, a Trojan is a major security threat. It is essential to take measures to avoid falling victim to these attacks. Therefore, we are going to give some essential tips to ensure that our devices are properly protected and that no problems arise.
Use security software
Something significant to maintain security and avoid Trojans and other threats is to have a good antivirus. There are many options. One of the most used is Windows Defender itself, the antivirus that comes with Microsoft systems. However, there are many free and paid options. For example, Avast or Bitdefender are some alternatives.
Keeping everything up to date
Of course, it is essential to keep everything up to date. In fact, cybercriminals can take advantage of a vulnerability to sneak in a Trojan. They could use a bug on Windows or in a program you use to sneak in malicious software without you noticing it and be able to control the device.
Install only official applications
Something very important, and not always taken into account, is to install only official applications. It is true that there are many options for almost everything, but the ideal is to use only programs that are reliable, secure and that have not been maliciously modified to steal data or, in this case, to install Trojans. To achieve this it is important to download programs only from official sources. For example go to the official website of the application or use secure stores such as Google Play.
Common sense
But undoubtedly the most important thing is common sense. In most cyber attacks the hacker will need us to make a mistake. For example, clicking on a dangerous link, downloading an insecure file, etc. This makes it essential to take care when browsing and not to make mistakes.
For example, you should make sure not to download attachments that come to you by email if you do not really know the source and do not know for sure whether or not it may be a threat. The same when logging in or opening any link. You should always check that it is reliable and is not going to be a problem.
