We all love to surf the internet to find things that interest us. There may be a movie you cannot find on Netflix, so you watch it from online sites. Also, there may be information regarding a specific topic that you need, and for that matter, you may be shifting from site to site.
The problem with this online wandering is that with all this information comes risky malware software that can harm you and your privacy in several ways. This is where anti malware software comes to your rescue.
It acts like a shield between your data and the invaders and keeps it protected no matter what. To understand anti malware, you first need to know what malware is.
What is Malware – What’s so malicious about it?
Malware is malicious software that invades your computer without your knowledge and puts all your private data at risk. It can be from an email, internet, USB devices etc.
Your financial data, private stuff, and everything is at risk once this malicious invader enters your device. Most cyber attacks happen because of these malicious software.
If you have no idea about bad websites, you can be a victim without knowing. And that is what is so malicious about malware. But there is something that can protect you – anti malware software.
What is Anti-Malware Software? Is it worth it against cyber attacks
As the name suggests, anti-malware software aims to eliminate malware altogether. It doesn’t matter whether it’s a virus or a Trojan horse; this software is designed to detect malware beforehand and keep it from entering your device so you don’t become a victim of Cyber attack.
Installing anti-malware software scans your device continuously in the background and prevents viruses or attackers from stealing or corrupting your data.
Types of viruses that need anti-malware
Now let’s talk about the kind of viruses that need Malware.
Computer viruses
Such viruses are basically self replicating programs that can cause extreme damage by deleting or corrupting files and slowing down system performance. There are many online versions of these viruses that scammers make use of.
Worms
Like viruses, worms are malware programs that spread through computer networks. The thing is, they do not require any user action. Worms can exploit ransom vulnerabilities in operating systems and cause harm there. Hackers use worms constantly.
Trojans
Trojans can disguise themselves as legitimate software or programs which can contain malicious code, says Open.edu. Once trojans are in your system, they cause unauthorized access and launch malware. Sadly, trojans can be the most potent Malware tools for scammers or cyber attackers.
How does Anti Malware Software work?
You may be surprised that anti-malware software doesn’t just follow a single strategy to eradicate viruses or worms from your device. There are three most famous ways in which it works to fight off your enemies.
- Signature Based Approach
- Behaviour Based Approach
- Sandbox Approach
Signature Based Detection
Now this is one of the most common ways in which anti-malware works. In this type of detection, the software uses digital signatures and the previously known characteristics of various malware.
When these signatures match with any of the codes that come into your device in any way, the anti-malware automatically holds it down and prevents it from invading your privacy. This method could be more effective on new viruses or trojan horses. But common adware is usually detected by this method.
Behavior based detection
In simple terms, behavior-based detection works similarly to how we judge people around us according to their behaviors and decide whether they are worthy of being a part of our life.
Instead of only relying on the signatures, it judges software through its behavior. If the behavior matches that of malicious software and shows signs of something that may put your data at risk, the anti-malware software begins operating and flags it as malware.
Unlike signature based detection that works well with known malware, this approach is ideal for catching those viruses that haven’t seen the light of the day yet.
Sandbox approach
In a sandboxing detection method, the anti-malware filters out those files from your device that it finds suspicious or threatening. It downloads the file and runs it in the virtual environment. In other words, the file is separated from the rest of the data and can be processed alone with limited resources the anti-malware provides.
If this file tries to get access to the rest of the files, the sandbox has the authority to terminate it. This method is effective in detecting any malicious file without leaving an adverse impact on the rest of your data.
What are the perks of using Anti malware software?
The perks of using anti-malware software speak for themselves, loud and clear. Software that keeps you safe in IT is worthy of your time and attention. Without it, your whole data can be at potential risk and you can be at the mercy of a cyber attack. Here are some of how anti-malware software ensures your protection:
Protection from dangerous sites
Before you find your way to a malicious site that’s hiding malware for you, this software gives you a heads-up. This can keep you from visiting that site and bring your world to doom from the trap of a cybercrime.
Instant insights
If an infection in your device or a virus has invaded its premises somehow, anti-malware software will tell you immediately. Not only this, but it also guides you through the removal process and the amount of time required to get the job done.
Background check
Anti-malware is quite user-friendly and doesn’t disturb you by slowing down the speed of your device. Getting rid of harmful viruses boosts the overall functionality of your device. What’s more is that it’s always running in the background, protecting you like a good mother without telling you about it.
Anti malware with a VPN – is it a good approach?
Anti malware will protect you from viruses but a VPN helps you not get them in the first place. If you want to enhance your internet security from cyber attacks then using Malware with the VPN is the best approach. For instance, with a VPN, you can enjoy the benefits of a dedicated US IP address that will cleanse your browsing like a pro.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between anti-malware and antivirus?
Antiviruses are used to eliminate particular forms of viruses but not all. On the other hand, anti-malware software is used to combat multiple forms of viruses, worms, malware etc.
What are the latest categories of threats that anti-malware software can detect?
Malicious software like spyware, ransomware, botnet and fileless malware can easily be detected by this software.
How can I avoid DDoS attacks while gaming? Are they viruses?
DDoS is a technique used by scammers to crowd your internet traffic so you are unable to access a certain site or server (more info). More than anti-malware, a VPN can help you with DDoS attacks.
Conclusion
Anti malware is a knight in shining armor for almost everybody who uses Information Technology in one way or the other. It can keep you safe from anything that may threaten your financial records, personal data and even the functioning of your device.
You may not realize it, but anti-malware software can make your life smooth and problem-free in the virtual world. You can conveniently surf the internet, watch your favorite movies and play your most cherished games without a second thought because you know anti-malware has your back. If you want to stay safe from cyber crimes, anti malware is one way to go.
Author Bio:
Anas Hassan is a Content Marketer at a leading cybersecurity firm PureVPN. He has vast experience in the field of digital transformation industry. When Anas isn’t blogging, he watches the football games.