Computer Worm - I Eat and Infect

When we hear the term computer worm, it is sometimes classified to a virus. Though sharing similar traits, they are completely different in their mode of infection and operation.

A computer virus usually gains entry through a file or attachment. Once inside, they need to be activated by the user. This is done by opening the infected file or executing it.

A worm, though mode of entry is the same, does not require user assistance. They infect and replicate completely autonomous.

Mode of Entry

File sharing: Disguised as non-suspicious media files, they spread through sharing sites like Torrent.
Social media: Appears as interesting links, they prompt the user to click and download.
Phishing: Spreads via email attachments, usually from a contact whose system has been infected.
Zero-day exploits: Sometimes the operating system has some bugs or security weakness which gets compromised.
External devices: Infected portable hard disc or USB drive

Symptoms

Low internet speed.
Computer becomes slow and sluggish.
Files gets corrupt or missing.
Firewall starts giving repeated alerts.

Prevention

Make sure firewall is always on and active. Do not disable without prior reasons.
Invest in a paid antivirus software like Norton or McAfee.
If a file or email attachment appears suspicious, do not download. This is true even from trusted contacts.

Additional information

https://www.crowdstrike.com/en-us/cybersecurity-101/malware/computer-worm/

https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/what-is-computer-worm/

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