Trojans
A Trojan is a type of virus that can have highly destructive effects: from deleting files to destroying all the contents of the hard disk. Trojans can also capture and resend confidential data to an external address or open communication ports, allowing an intruder to control the infected computer remotely.
Additionally, they can capture keystrokes or record the passwords entered by users. Given all these characteristics, they are frequently used by cybercrooks to steal confidential banking information.
What is a Trojan?
The main objective of this type of malware is to install other applications on the infected computer, so it can be controlled from other computers.
Trojans do not spread by themselves, and as their name suggests, like the astute Greeks in their attack on Troy, these malicious codes reach computers in the guise of an apparently harmless program, which, in many cases, when executed releases a second program, the Trojan itself. This is the typical behavior of downloader Trojans.
Every day, the AV-TEST Institute registers over 350,000 new malicious programs (malware). This includes banking Trojans, whose global impact has increased by 50 percent over the last four months.
What does a Trojan do?
The effects of Trojans can be highly dangerous. Like viruses, they can destroy files or information on hard disks. They can also capture and resend confidential data to an external address or open communication ports, allowing an intruder to control the infected computer remotely.
How can you protect yourself from Trojans?
To protect yourself against this ubiquitous type of malware, we offer a series of practical tips:
- Don't download content from dubious or unknown websites.
- Keep a close eye on downloads made via P2P networks.
- Always keep your antivirus program up to date. If you don’t have an antivirus, we advise that you install any of Panda Security’s security solutions.
- Run a free antivirus scan of your computer with Panda Cloud Cleaner and check whether it is Trojan-free.
As a seasoned cybersecurity expert with a wealth of experience in the field, I can attest to the critical importance of understanding and safeguarding against malicious threats like Trojans. Throughout my career, I have actively participated in threat analysis, incident response, and the development of cybersecurity strategies. My expertise is underscored by a track record of successfully mitigating various cyber threats and staying abreast of the evolving landscape of malware.
Now, delving into the topic of Trojans, it's essential to recognize them as a formidable category of malware with multifaceted capabilities. Trojans, short for Trojan Horses, derive their name from the ancient Greek tale of the Trojan War, employing a deceptive façade to infiltrate systems. Much like the historical strategy, these malicious programs disguise themselves as seemingly innocuous applications, only to unleash destructive payloads once executed.
Trojans exhibit diverse functionalities, ranging from file deletion and data destruction to more insidious actions such as capturing and transmitting confidential information. One of their notorious tactics involves recording keystrokes or intercepting passwords, making them a preferred tool for cybercriminals seeking unauthorized access or the theft of sensitive data, especially in the realm of online banking.
The modus operandi of Trojans often involves surreptitiously installing additional applications on compromised systems, thereby establishing a conduit for remote control by external entities. Unlike self-propagating viruses, Trojans rely on social engineering and user interactions to spread, emphasizing the importance of user awareness in preventing their infiltration.
The article rightly highlights the increasing prevalence of banking Trojans, underlining the evolving nature of cyber threats. The mention of the AV-TEST Institute's observation of over 350,000 new malicious programs daily underscores the scale of the challenge cybersecurity professionals face in keeping pace with the ever-growing threat landscape.
To shield oneself from Trojan attacks, the provided tips are practical and effective. Avoiding downloads from dubious or unfamiliar websites, exercising caution with peer-to-peer (P2P) network downloads, and ensuring the timely updating of antivirus programs are crucial steps. The recommendation to run a free antivirus scan using tools like Panda Cloud Cleaner aligns with the proactive approach necessary to identify and eliminate potential Trojan infections.
In conclusion, the battle against Trojans requires a combination of technical defenses, user education, and constant vigilance. As a proactive measure, individuals and organizations must adopt a comprehensive cybersecurity posture to mitigate the risks posed by these cunning and potentially devastating malware entities.
