What’s new in the world of malware? At Perigon One, we’re here with all the latest news, trends, and updates, highlighting some of the hottest topics across the cybersecurity landscape throughout 2023.
With the end of the year almost within sight, we think that this is the perfect time to take a brief look into the state of malware in 2023. Why? Because by understanding the current malware landscape, and keeping up-to-date on the latest news and developments, it becomes easier to secure and protect your business in the best possible way.
Before we start, let’s quickly give ourselves a speedy malware refresher…
What is malware?
Just like any digital tool or application you use, malware is a type of software. But unlike those you choose to use, malware is designed to hinder and hurt your business, rather than help it. It’s all in the name. ‘Malware’ is a portmanteau built from the words ‘malicious’ and ‘software’.
Of course, you’d never buy malware. So how does it get onto your computer? This is usually done by tricking users into downloading the software. For example, an email may be sent pretending to be from a trusted company, asking the recipient to download their new app. However, the link directs the recipient to a fraudulent website, where the malware is downloaded instead of the real app.
Malware is intended to wreak havoc on business networks. It can run programs in the background to use up all your device’s computing resources, damage your network infrastructure, or steal data.
Taking measures to protect against malware is essential. And it’s easier to see what the best measures are when you understand what’s been happening across the malware community.
So, here’s all the biggest malware news from this year….
1. AI is being used to create malware
Generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools like ChatGPT are increasingly being used to create malware. Hackers are asking AI to generate malicious code, adding in a machine-learned level of complexity that means the code is more likely to evade detection by even the most advanced tools.
2. Fileless malware is on the rise
As we mentioned earlier, malware gets onto devices as users are tricked into downloading files onto their computers. However, this year we’re seeing more ‘fileless’ malware. This means that the malicious code can be executed straight from an email HTML attachment without creating a file.
3. IoT malware attacks are growing
More malware is being created to infect connected devices, like home security setups, with the intention of hackers being able to control the systems. The number of attacks has grown so much that manufacturers are purposefully luring hackers so they can investigate malware technology.
4. Web services are being exploited more
While hackers have long hidden away within legitimate web services, reports suggest that web services are now being used in more than 25% of attacks. Among the many different services being exploited as part of this criminal activity, cloud storage platforms are some of the biggest victims.
5. Google extends malware support
While Google has been quick to remove malicious extensions from its Chrome Web Store, these extensions can remain on personal devices. This year, however, Google is extending its Safety Check feature to browser extensions, notifying users of malware and prompting them to uninstall tools.
Fortunately, while malware is showing no signs of slowing down, a strong security strategy can help you protect your business from attack. Read about the security services that we offer here at Perigon one, or get in touch to discuss your cyber security needs with our experienced team.
