There are many types of malware that can compromise your security. Hackers have many strategies to steal passwords, personal data or take control of your devices. In this article we are going to talk about a dangerous threat that is even worse than ransomware. We are going to explain what it is, how it affects you and how you can protect yourself to avoid being a victim and be more protected. You will see that, just by following some essential steps, you can avoid problems.
This is what is known as killware. Many consider it a worse threat than ransomware. This last type of malware is responsible for encrypting the files and asking for a ransom to recover them. It can affect home users as well as businesses and organizations of all types. Killware can be similar to ransomware, but with additions that make it stronger.
Killware, a major threat
But what exactly is killware? It’s about a type of malware, which can be similar to ransomware in terms of demanding a ransom, which has the ability to physically affect. It could put a person’s physical safety at risk, as it could attack a vital device.
For example, it could affect a home security device, a smoke detector, a computer that is essential for a company, vital devices in a hospital… An attacker will threaten to physically harm those devices if a payment is not made. It is, therefore, similar to ransomware.
However, the key difference is that killware is capable of permanently damaging a device. Ransomware could simply hijack files and then release them in exchange for payment. This is not always the case, but it is the general idea. On the other hand, killware can be more serious because of what we have explained.
You could, therefore, be left without a computer or any other device that has suffered a cyber attack of this type. It is something you should always protect yourself from, as it can be a real danger.
Avoid this problem
So, what can you do to avoid killware that could seriously endanger your devices? Actually, the recommendations are going to be similar to any other threat of this type. It’s key keep common sense, so you should not click on dangerous links, download unofficial software, or leave your accounts unprotected. It is essential to use strong passwords at all times, both for online accounts and registrations, as well as for the devices themselves.
Additionally, it is advisable that you use a good antivirus. This will help you detect malicious software that may be on the system. Always install a program that is reliable, that works correctly and that helps you maintain good protection by preventing the entry of dangerous software.
Something that cannot be missing is having everything well updated. In many cases, hackers will take advantage of flaws in the system to achieve their goal of sneaking in killware and other malicious software. It is key to have the latest versions and thus avoid risks.
As you see, the killware is a variant of ransomware that can be even more dangerous. It is important to be protected and not fall into the trap of cybercriminals. You can recover files encrypted by ransomware, but you would hardly be able to recover a device physically damaged by this type of malware.
