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Lesson 2: Malware Analysis & Defense
Page 1 of 2What is Malware?
Malware (malicious software) is any software intentionally designed to cause damage to a computer, server, client, or computer network. Malware can take many forms and causes significant disruptions to personal and organizational digital environments.
Types of Malware
| Malware Type | Description | Transmission Method |
|---|---|---|
| Virus | Attaches to legitimate programs and replicates | Infected files, downloads |
| Worm | Self-replicates and spreads without user action | Network connections |
| Trojan Horse | Disguised as legitimate software | Email attachments, downloads |
| Ransomware | Encrypts files and demands payment | Phishing, vulnerabilities |
| Spyware | Secretly monitors user activity | Bundled software, ads |
| Rootkit | Hides deep in the OS to avoid detection | Exploitation of privileges |
Malware Analysis Approaches
- Static Analysis
- Examining the malware without executing it
- File hashing and signature matching
- Disassembly and code review
- Dynamic Analysis
- Running the malware in a controlled sandbox environment
- Monitoring system calls and network traffic
- Behavioral profiling
- Hybrid Analysis
- Combining both static and dynamic techniques
- Used for complex, obfuscated malware