Even the most careful internet users may come across malicious or deceptive websites without realizing it. With a momentary lapse of judgement, they could fall victim to a scam or download malware onto their machine.

Here are some common types of malware that a deceptive website may infect your device with:

Memory Dumpers: Malicious hidden software or injections that capture the data in RAM “snapshots” to obtain protected information, like passwords and keys. Anything stored in RAM (way more than you’d think!) is stolen each time a dump is triggered.

Code Injection: Attackers will often inject code into software or machines to do things like make themselves administrators, changing or deleting databases, installing more malware on servers, etc.

Keyloggers: Keystroke loggers are exactly what they sound like – they record and store every keystroke you make, and as a result, they can clearly see passwords, credit card details, private conversations, and much more.

Here are some warning signs of common malware scams.

Error-like popups. These can often act like a real windows error, warning you of a virus, saying you’ve been compromised, or some other similar warning. If you see one of these, NEVER call the phone number listed – it’s always a scam. This is not how Microsoft, Apple, or any legitimate company informs users of any sort of security or performance issue, nor will they ever call you.

Deceptive redirections. You clicked on a link to a website, but got taken to a different site – close your browser and scan right away.

Fake ransomware. A message may pop up saying that your files are locked until you send money, buy a product, etc. Simply end your browser process to remove them and run a scan.

I may have just been infected with malware from a deceptive website! What do I do?

• Doing a scan with MalwareBytes after you come into contact with a suspicious site, link, download, or process, is advised.
• Use system restore points, startup repair, and safe mode to your advantage.
• Scan regularly too, not only after you have a scary experience!
• If you do happen to find yourself staring at a clearly suspicious site, don’t click anything! Instead, end your browser process instead.

^{SEPTEMBER 18 2020
Authored here @ hello internet.}