New Malware

If you’re a regular computer user, you’ve probably already heard of malware. If not, or if you’re not entirely clear on what malware is, it is quite simply malicious software – software you do not want on your computer. Software can be classified as malware for any number of reasons. It can be anything from a virus that crashes your system to an adware program that flashes unwanted ads or popups on your screen to a spyware program that transmits information about your computing and Internet practices to a remote user. These types of programs are not new. Malware programs, however, just like human viruses, are constantly evolving, and you need to know about new malware that may be out there waiting to strike.

Types of New Malware

Most new malware is new simply in that it looks different to your computer. In other words, it still does the same type of thing; it is just better disguised so that it has an easier time infiltrating your computer system. However, one type of new malware that is really insidious is the rootkit.

What is a Rootkit?

A rootkit, like most malware, is often found in a Trojan Horse, a program designed to look like a useful, beneficial program but actually containing a virus or some other type of malicious program. The function of the rootkit is to give someone else administrator level access to your computer.  It can rewrite your basic operating system commands so that an outside user can get into your system and do essentially whatever they want. It may render certain portions of your system inoperable with no indication of how or why.  It can use your computer to attack other computers. In other words, getting a rootkit installed in your computer is disastrous.

Stopping Rootkits and other New Malware

Some malware can be easily removed even after it has been on your computer for awhile. However it should be clear that something like a rootkit is something you want to get rid of before it infiltrates your system. For this, you need anti-virus software that detects new malware presences as they come in as well as ones that may already have been working in your system for some time.  A good way to start is with a free scan of your system. AntiSpyware for Dummies offers a free scan as part of their trial. The AntiSpyware for Dummies system is specifically designed to locate new viruses, spam and other malware threats and isolate it as soon as it becomes a threat to your system. This can make it harder for the malware to do any damage. This is important because it is often difficult to know when you are downloading freeware or opening emails that you are in any danger. The AntiSpyware for Dummies system also continually updates its virus and other malware definitions, so it can recognize new malware as easily as old malware. Start with the free scan, see what malware you may already have, and then consider downloading the full program to protect yourself from all threats, old and new.