Many different types of malware are attacking computers, but Trojans are some of the most dangerous. Trojans appear harmless like their ancient Greek namesake but pack a powerful punch once hackers exploit them.
They do this by masquerading as legitimate files and exploiting known system vulnerabilities. Keeping software, hardware, and operating systems up to date can help reduce these threats.
Detecting a Trojan
Trojans, which take their name from the wooden horse that the Greeks used to sack Troy, are malware programs that hide their malicious intent by masquerading as a standard program. This is a common way for cybercriminals to trick victims into clicking or downloading an innocuous-looking program, which then activates and begins spying on the computer, locking files and demanding ransom payments, or doing other damage.
Unexpected changes to computer settings or unusual activity are strong indications that a Trojan is present. The first Trojan created, ANIMAL, presented itself as a simple prank game similar to Twenty Questions. It copied itself into directories shared across entire computer networks so other users could download and play it. It then performed various attacks, including spying on users and stealing instant and text messages.
Because they hide their malicious intent, Trojans can be difficult for cybersecurity teams or individual users to detect. However, implementing scanners and antivirus software to detect potential threats can help minimize Zero-Day attacks. Ensuring that all devices and systems are updated to reduce vulnerabilities should also be a priority for individuals and cybersecurity teams. A good rule of thumb is always to be wary of attachments in emails from unknown sources and avoid installing programs that come bundled with adware or PUPs, as these are usually less dangerous than Trojans.
Getting Rid of a Trojan
In most cases, you can avoid Trojans with the help of a robust, up-to-date operating system and an always-on virus scanner. Moreover, you can protect yourself by browsing the web carefully and only downloading programs from secure sources. It would be best if you were also wary of opening any email attachments and never clicking on any suspicious links.
They trick you into downloading, installing, and running them by masquerading as games, updates, email attachments, or other legitimate programs. Once they have been run, they can start stealing data and spying on you.
They can also use your device or computer as a launchpad for further cyberattacks. Backdoor Trojans, for example, create a gateway on your computer that allows attackers to access and control your system. They can then upload other malware, steal data, or even perform DDoS attacks against your network.
It's important to note that Trojan viruses are not the same as other types of malware. The main difference is that Trojans do not spread and replicate themselves, whereas worms and spyware do. Also, unlike viruses, Trojans require you to install and execute them to perform their functions.
This is why they often use social engineering techniques to hide their malicious code as innocuous programs people want to download and install.
Keeping Your Software Up to Date
Getting updates for your devices and software programs is not just about security; it's about your experience. Updates can make programs more stable, eliminate crashes, and give them a boost in performance. It's a best practice that everyone, from cybersecurity teams to individual users, should follow.
Trojans can get into your computer or other device in ways that don't necessarily look dangerous, but they do have a way of staying active on your machine for long periods. That's why monitoring your device for unexplained processes, apps, or procedures that seem out of the ordinary is essential.
Backdoor Trojans allow hackers to access your computer remotely. From there, they can steal your data or upload more malware to your system. Zombifying Trojans turn your device into an enslaved person in a hacker's botnet, which can be used to execute distributed denial-of-service attacks where an army of infected devices flood a network until it goes down.
Aside from those major categories, many Trojans target different things. Spyware Trojans, for example, steal account login information for all your online activities and send that back to the attacker. A backdoor Trojan gives the attacker complete control of your device. At the same time, a downloader Trojan can perfectly mimic antivirus software and demand payment from you to detect and remove real threats.
Keeping Your Internet Connection Safe
Trojan horse attacks can be devastating, and taking steps to protect yourself is essential. These steps include backing up files regularly, using firewalls, and only downloading programs from trusted sources. It's also a good idea to avoid suspicious websites and only click on links in emails if you know what they are.
Similarly, Trojan malware can hide in legitimate-looking applications and files, waiting to access sensitive information or systems when unsuspecting users download it.
A Trojan may start its attack instantly or lie in wait until a user connects to a network and the internet or opens an email attachment or other downloaded program. Once downloaded, the Trojan can attempt to hijack devices or systems and upload the data to remote servers to use.
Trojans can steal many data types, including passwords for online banking and credit card accounts, logins for IM platforms, and more. They can also download and execute other malicious code, such as backdoors that create remote access to a computer and allow for further attacks or spyware to monitor and record keystrokes.