What is a Computer Worm?

Computer users need to beware of malicious malware like computer worms which can spread across computer networks by taking advantage of vulnerabilities in their operating systems or network protocol. Unlike viruses which require a host file to propagate, computer worms have the unique ability to self-replicate and spread autonomously to other systems connected to the same network or internet. In a very short time, there can be an exponential growth in the number of infected systems this way. Computer worms can employ various attack vectors to infect systems including some of the following:

Network Exploitation

Computer worms tend to exploit vulnerabilities present in network protocols, apps or services to gain unauthorized entry into remote systems. This malicious malware can identify weaknesses in systems that are connected to the internet by scanning their IP address and probing network ports.

Email Attachments

Another way that computer worms spread is through email attachments. They leverage social engineering techniques and trick users into opening malicious files sent as attachments or embedded links. Once the email is opened, these computer worms proceed to infect the user’s system and propagate further by sending copies of itself to the email owner’s contact list.

File Sharing Networks

Computer worms can also be spread through removable storage devices (USB drives), peer-to-peer (P2P) file sharing networks, etc. The malware disguises itself as a legitimate file, link or application, and lures users into downloading and executing them, contaminating the entire system.

Some of the malicious activities of the computer worm include:

Data Theft

Crucial data such as login details, financial data or personal information can be easily stolen and used to commit identity theft or fraud.

Botnet Formation

These worms can convert infected systems into bots or zombie computers and recruit them into a botnet or network of compromised computers from where spam campaigns, distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) or other nefarious activities can be launched.

System Disruption

Worms can also cause mayhem in infected systems by deleting files, corrupting data, modifying system settings, resulting in system instability.

Computer worms pose a substantial threat to computer systems and networks, leading to widespread damage and disruption. Hence, user education, regular updating of software and network monitoring are essential to staying free of this malware.