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WHAT IS COMPUTER WORM & HOW DOES IT SPREAD?

WHAT IS COMPUTER WORM & HOW DOES IT SPREAD?

  • 30th Sep, 2020
  • IGS Cleaner

A computer worm is a type of malware that is inserted into a device covertly and spreads copies of itself from device to device. A worm can clone itself without any human activity and interaction, and it does not need to attach itself to a software program in order to cause damage.

What is the mechanism of computer worm?


Worms can transmit via software possibility of being attacked or harmed. Computer worms could arrive as extensions in spam mails or instant messages. Once accessed or opened, these files could provide a link to a malicious website or automatically redirect download of computer worm. Once it is installed, worms silently go to work and infect the machine without the user's realization.

Worms can alter and eradicate files, and they can even introduce additional


malicious software onto a computer. Sometimes the purpose of a computer worm is only to make copies of itself over and over — drain system resources, such as hard drive space or bandwidth, by overloading a shared network. In addition to inflict damage on computer resources, worms can also steal data, install a backdoor, and allow a hacker to gain control over a computer and its system settings.

Stuxnet: the most famous computer worm


In July 2010, after many frequent incidents in Iran two security researchers discovered the first computer worm used as a cyber weapon. Researchers labeled it “Stuxnet”, this worm emerged to be much more complex than the worms researchers were used to counter. This attracted the attention of high-profile security specialists around the world. Their immense research led them to culminate that the worm was being used to attack an Iranian power plant, with the utmost goal of destroying nuclear weapon production. Although the attack ultimately failed, this computer worm is still active on the threat aspect today.

How to find if your computer has a worm:


If you sense your devices are contaminated with a computer worm, run a virus scan instantly. Even if the scan comes up negative, consider a proactive approach by following these steps.


  • Keep an eye on your hard drive space. When worms repeatedly reproduce themselves, they start to use up the free space on the computer.
  • Monitor speed and performance. Has your computer appeared a little stagnant? Are some of your programs crashing or not running properly? That could be a red flag that a worm is eating up your processing power.
  • Be on the lookout for missing or new files. One function of a computer worm is to delete and replace files on a computer.

How to protect against computer worms:


Computer worms are just one example of malicious software. To protect your computer from worms and other online threats, take these steps.

  • Since software possibilities to be attacked or hacked are major infection vectors for computer worms, be sure your computer’s operating system and applications are not obsolete with the latest versions. Install new and authenticated updates as soon as they are available because updates often include spots for security flaws.
  • Phishing is another popular way for hackers to spread worms. Always be extra cautious when opening unsolicited emails, especially those from unknown senders that contain attachments or dubious links.
  • Be sure to invest in a strong internet security software solution that can help block these threats. A good product should have anti-phishing technology as well as defenses against viruses, spyware, ransomware, and other online threats.

If you want to learn more about cybersecurity threats then make sure to check more informational articles provided by IGS-Cleaner(the best computer optimization software) team.

When Windows has completed the task, your drive should say 0% fragmented in the Optimize Drives utility.