In today’s digital era, malware has become a common threat to computer systems. It refers to a malicious software that is designed to cause damage, steal sensitive information or disrupt the normal functioning of a computer. According to a recent study, there are more than 350,000 malware types detected every day, making it a significant concern for computer users. This article aims to explore the common methods of malware infection on computers and provide practical examples to further understand the subject.

1. Phishing attacks:
Phishing is the most commonly used method of malware infection, which involves the use of deceptive emails to trick users into revealing sensitive information or downloading infected attachments. The emails often masquerade as legitimate and trustworthy sources, making it challenging for users to identify phishing attempts. A well-known example of a phishing attack is the WannaCry ransomware attack, where the attackers used a phishing email to trick users into downloading the malware, resulting in widespread damage to computer systems.

2. Infected websites:
Cybercriminals often exploit vulnerabilities in websites to infect a large number of computers. They can inject malicious code into a legitimate website, and when users visit the site, the code gets downloaded and infects their systems. This method is known as a drive-by download. For instance, the infamous malware, SamSam, was spread through a compromised website, which resulted in the encryption of data and a ransom demand for its release.

3. Social engineering:
Social engineering is a technique used by attackers to manipulate users into taking actions that could compromise their systems. It could be as simple as convincing a user to click on a malicious link or download a fake software update. Social engineering attacks are difficult to detect, as they exploit human psychology rather than technical vulnerabilities. An example of social engineering is the ZeuS malware, which targeted online banking users by posing as a security update.

4. Removable media:
Removable media, such as USB drives, CDs, and external hard drives, can also act as a potential source of malware infection. Attackers can infect these devices with malicious code and spread it to other computers when the media is connected. In 2015, a malware called BadUSB infected millions of USB drives, which could then be used to spread the malware to other systems.

5. Malvertising:
Malvertising is a form of online advertising that involves delivering malicious advertisements to users. These ads often redirect users to infected websites or prompt them to download malware. The attackers exploit the trust users have in legitimate websites and use them as a platform to spread malware. In 2018, the popular social media platform, Facebook, was hit by a malvertising campaign that led to the spread of the adware, AdGholas.

In conclusion, the methods mentioned above are just a few of the many ways in which malware can infect computers. It is crucial for computer users to be aware of these techniques and take necessary precautions to protect their systems. Some of the best practices to avoid malware infections include using strong and unique passwords, keeping software and operating systems updated, and being cautious when clicking on links or opening attachments from unknown sources. Additionally, using reliable anti-malware software and regularly backing up important data can also help mitigate the risk of malware infections. By staying informed and implementing proper security measures, we can safeguard our computers from the ever-evolving threat of malware.