Computer viruses are the biggest threat to companies, and hundreds of thousands of these harmful programs are found every day. In addition to ransomware, which may utterly destroy a machine and keep your data hostage, some malware is made to multiply themselves and take over networks. Therefore millions of computer and laptop users seek professional malware removal services to eliminate the threat of malware or viruses on their devices.
Additionally, not every strain of virus or malware acts in the same manner. A single malware assault might cause your company to lose a lot of money if you’re not careful. However, how much harm can malware do? – not certain.
List of The Most Harmful Malware and Computer Viruses in 2024
We’ve put up a list of the most serious computer viruses ever discovered and still in use online to help you better understand the effects of malware.
1. WannaCry
WannaCry is one of the most notorious ransomware outbreaks ever discovered, having been identified in May 2017. WannaCry was created to encrypt files on compromised machines and demand payment from its victims, just like the majority of ransomware. The virus was distinct, though, in that it took use of flaws in out-of-date Windows operating systems to propagate quickly over computer networks.
2. ILOVEYOU
In May 2000, ILOVEYOU—also referred to as the LoveBug virus or the love letter—was initially identified. Millions of individuals were exposed to the virus via an email attachment with the subject line “ILOVEYOU.” It overwrote certain files (such JPEG and MP3 files) from the hard disc and propagated to all contacts in the user’s Microsoft Outlook address book once it was launched.
3. Code Red
A computer worm called Code Red was created to take advantage of significant vulnerabilities in Microsoft’s Internet Information Services web server. According to reports, Code Red hacked more than 350,000 web servers in July 2001, leaving messages like “Hacked by Chinese” on online pages. Because worms can duplicate themselves and infect other computers connected to the same network, this extensive attack was made feasible. It was anticipated that this attack would cost $2.75 billion to recover from and repair.
4. Klez
In October 2001, the Klez virus first surfaced. It might propagate to every person in a user’s Outlook contact book by taking advantage of glitchy Microsoft email clients. Worse, it may develop into a “polymorphic” virus, which might continuously alter its programming to evade antivirus software detection. Numerous cybercriminals created several Klez worm variations, making it very difficult to combat.
5. Sobig
The Sobig worm was a Trojan horse, or malware masquerading as a benign software, in addition to being a self-replicating worm. Sobig spread in 2003 using a bulk email chain with seemingly harmless subject lines like “Re: Approved” and “Thank You!” The worm would activate and collect data from the host computer to look for email addresses to target if it was downloaded. Sobig’s reach was so extensive that it had an impact on computer systems in North America, Europe, and Asia.
6. Mydoom
In 2004, Mydoom caused losses exceeding $38 billion, making it possibly the worst virus in history. Similar to Sobig, it was a kind of computer worm that transmitted itself to email addresses that were stolen from compromised machines. Distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, which overload target websites and servers with so much traffic that they become unusable, might be launched by the worm utilizing the whole network of compromised machines.
7. Sasser
In 2004, a different computer worm called Sasser targeted computers running Windows 2000 and Windows XP. Due to a flaw in the Local Security Authority Subsystem Service, which is in charge of handling user logins and passwords, it propagated swiftly. Millions of PCs crashed and blue-screened as a result of the worm, forcing many companies to shut down their networks until the infection was fixed.
8. Zeus
Zeus is a Trojan horse used to steal bank account information and passwords, among other private financial information. It was initially identified in 2007 and connected compromised devices to a botnet, which is a vast network of computers under hacker control. The botnet was used by cybercriminals to steal money from banks and other organizations.
9. Stuxnet
Stuxnet is a computer worm that was primarily employed in cyberwarfare and was discovered in 2010. It spreads through damaged USB sticks. Industrial control systems used to manage nuclear power stations and other industrial facilities were the focus of the virus. Because Stuxnet was so strong, it could physically harm Iran and control its nuclear centrifuges.
What can you do against future malware threats?
Considering how dangerous and far-reaching malware can be, having a strong cybersecurity framework is more important than ever. More specifically, you need antivirus software, a comprehensive backup system, strong network security controls, and Virus and malware removal services from expert computer technicians. To further stop malware from infecting your systems, you should always update them and maintain proper cyber hygiene.
A professional computer repair company may offer you expert assistance to securely protect your systems from viruses. Techonroad, a leading laptop and computer repair in Wellington, has a team of cybersecurity experts to offer cutting-edge solutions to keep all kinds of threats out of your computer. Allow us to assist you and know that your data and network are protected from even the most severe virus or malware attacks.
Leave a Reply