When it comes to malicious malware, wiper malware presents particular cause for concern. A type of malware designed to destroy or modify computers and IT systems, wiper malware is increasingly being used to target businesses and individuals. The primary goal of wiper malware is to sequentially overwrite or delete data in order to render it unrecoverable. Wiper malware is so dangerous because it is difficult to detect, destroys large amounts of data quickly, and makes full recovery of the system nearly impossible.
The recent WannaCry ransomware attack was an example of wiper malware in action. WannaCry spread quickly across the world and infected over 300,000 computers in 150 different countries. The malware encrypted the files of the targeted computers and demanded payment in the form of bitcoin in order to regain access. However, because of the prowess of the malware, the data was often unrecoverable even after the ransom had been paid.
The problem with wiper malware is that it is difficult to detect ahead of time. Unlike other malicious software, wiper malware can often slip through security measures and go unnoticed until it’s too late. Additionally, these types of malware can cause more damage in less time than other forms of malware since it doesn’t require the installation of malicious software or the theft of data.
Organizations and individuals alike should be aware of the dangers of wiper malware, as it can be a costly mistake to be unaware of and unprepared for. To protect against ransomware, individuals should make sure their computers are up-to-date with the latest system and software patches. Additionally, backups of all important data should be stored offsite, in the cloud or on other protected storage as wiper malware is known to destroy or overwrite existing data. It is also important to practice safe online habits, such as not clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments from unknown sources.
Ultimately, wiper malware is a form of malicious software that can wreak havoc on an organization or individual’s information technology system. While wiper malware is difficult to detect and can cause a massive amount of data damage in a short period of time, individuals and organizations should take steps to protect themselves from the damage that can be caused by this type of malicious software.
