{"id":27791,"date":"2022-05-23T12:22:58","date_gmt":"2022-05-23T12:22:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/easydmarc.com\/blog\/?p=27791"},"modified":"2025-12-01T14:14:20","modified_gmt":"2025-12-01T14:14:20","slug":"what-is-virus-malware-and-how-does-it-work","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/easydmarc.com\/blog\/what-is-virus-malware-and-how-does-it-work\/","title":{"rendered":"What is Virus Malware and How Does it Work?"},"content":{"rendered":"

It doesn\u2019t matter if we\u2019re offline or online, the safety of our devices and data is paramount. The number of cybercrimes increases perpetually, and that\u2019s why you must know about various types of cyberattacks and preventative measures.<\/span><\/p>\n

This blog is all about <\/span>virus malware, <\/span>its types, symptoms, and ways to detect and prevent it. Before getting into the details, it\u2019s best to understand the differences between<\/span> ransomware vs. malware vs. phishing<\/span><\/a>. These terms fall under the same category but shouldn\u2019t be used interchangeably.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ready? Let\u2019s dive in.<\/span><\/p>\n

What is Virus Malware?<\/b><\/h2>\n

What is malware<\/span><\/a>? A <\/span>malware virus <\/b>is a piece of malicious code or program designed to infect, alter, and hinder a local network or a system\u2019s operational processes.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

It spreads from one device to another, attaching to legitimate programs or files that support macros to execute malicious codes.<\/span><\/p>\n

In other words, a <\/span>malware virus<\/b> is like a flu virus that spreads from one person to another. It replicates itself and spreads from host to host, infecting all computers, data, and networks in its wake\u00a0 But just as the flu virus needs a host cell, a <\/span>malware virus<\/b> needs a file or program to activate and spread.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Generally, the aim of creating and spreading a virus is to harm a network or system\u2019s functioning and export sensitive information. It\u2019s also used to delete or corrupt data, download additional malware or disrupt operations.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Malware vs. Virus: What\u2019s the Difference?<\/b><\/h3>\n

You may be confused between these two terms, so<\/span> let\u2019s quickly discuss <\/span>malware vs. a virus<\/b><\/p>\n

If you Google <\/span>\u2018<\/span><\/i>Is malware a virus?\u2019<\/i><\/b>, some resources may say there\u2019s no <\/span>difference between a virus and malware<\/b>. But that\u2019s not exactly true.<\/span><\/p>\n

Malware is a broad term referring to malicious software, and a virus is just one of many <\/span>types of malware<\/span><\/a>. In fact, the computer virus is the first form of malware ever created.<\/span><\/p>\n

It\u2019s designed to gain unauthorized entry into a system, infecting computers, tablets, smartphones, and even entire networks. A virus typically causes harm by disrupting normal computing processes and corrupting or stealing data. Besides viruses, malware encompasses various types of malicious software, including worms, trojans, spyware programs, ransomware, and even <\/span>hybrid malware.<\/span><\/p>\n

Examples of Virus Malware<\/b><\/h3>\n

The Melissa Virus<\/span><\/a> wreaked havoc in 1999, costing an estimated $80 million in collective damages. Using <\/span>social engineering techniques<\/span><\/a>, David Lee Smith posted a Microsoft Word document online promising free access to adult content.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once downloaded, the virus began taking over the targets\u2019 Microsoft Word program before hacking Microsoft Outlook. It replicated by sending itself via email to the first 50 addresses on the victim\u2019s mailing list. The virus was so powerful and widespread, infecting email servers of over 300 corporate and government organizations worldwide.<\/span><\/p>\n

In 2017, a <\/span>macro virus specifically targeted Apple Mac devices<\/span><\/a> via a Microsoft Word file sent via email. When users ignored warnings and opened the document in a macros-enabled application, the malicious code downloaded, decrypted and executed an encrypted virus<\/a> payload. Although not particularly sophisticated, this virus exploited the human factor, allowing hackers to monitor user activity, steal passwords, and access browser history.<\/span><\/p>\n

How Does a Computer Virus Work?<\/b><\/h2>\n

Once a virus enters a computer, it attaches itself to a program, file, or software. It remains inactive until suitable circumstances arise to execute the malicious code. Basically, you have to run or open the infected program, software, or file for the virus to execute its code.<\/span><\/p>\n

How Do Malware Viruses Spread?<\/b><\/h3>\n

Now that we\u2019re continuously connected to the world through the internet and other means, <\/span>virus malware<\/b> can spread in several ways.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

It can move from one host to another via networks, discs, attachments, USBs, etc. While floppy disks were originally common virus carriers, email has taken over.<\/span><\/p>\n

Today, it\u2019s the go-to gateway for phishing and spoofing attacks. Hackers often send emails with links redirecting to a fake website or containing malicious, virus-loaded files. You can use <\/span>EasyDMARC\u2019s email investigation tool<\/span><\/a> to detect and troubleshoot any potential issues.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

That said, malware viruses can also spread via internet file downloads, malicious links posted online, and audio, video, or image files. The only way to <\/span>protect your devices from cyberattacks<\/span><\/a> and viruses is to remain vigilant and implement the best cybersecurity practices<\/span><\/p>\n

If you\u2019re a website owner, <\/span>protect your site from SEO spam malware<\/span> too.<\/span><\/p>\n

What are the Different Types of Malware Viruses?<\/b><\/h2>\n

All viruses have a payload that executes harmful actions. A payload contains malicious code that can damage a system or breach and corrupt data. Here are four main types of <\/span>malware viruses<\/b>:<\/span><\/p>\n

Boot Sector Virus<\/b><\/h3>\n

A boot sector virus infects a hard disk\u2019s Master Boot Record (MBR) or a system’s boot partition. Before security software is up and running during start-up, the virus executes its payload. It often spreads when you plug in an infected USB drive into your computer.<\/span><\/p>\n

Web Scripting Virus<\/b><\/h3>\n

New browsers can typically detect malicious web pages. However, old browsers without this defense mechanism are susceptible to web scripting viruses. The malware can infect devices when accessing such a malicious web page.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Browser Hijacker<\/b><\/h3>\n

This virus \u201chijacks\u201d certain functions, changing your browsers\u2019 favorites, homepage URL, search preferences, etc. If you\u2019re frequently redirected to a malicious website, your data, and financial information may be under a hacker\u2019s radar.<\/span><\/p>\n

Resident Virus<\/b><\/h3>\n

A resident virus lies dormant, waiting for the execution of its payload when a specific file or program is run. It\u2019s often hidden in a computer system\u2019s memory.<\/span><\/p>\n

How to Spot a Computer Virus?<\/b><\/h2>\n

A computer virus can show various symptoms. If you observe any of the following signs, call an expert.<\/span><\/p>\n