Question 2
(a)(i)Whatis malware in computing?
- List three types of malware.
- State three symptoms of malware infection
- Give two ways of preventing malware infection.
Observation
The expected answer is:
(a) (i) Meaning of Malware in Computing
– It is a malicious software/ any software/program that disrupts computer operations.
- Any software that gains access to private computer system to gather sensitive information or display unwanted/unsolicited adverts
- A malicious software that is harmful to the computer or its user.
(ii) Types of Malware
- Multipartite virus
- Resident virus
- Browser Hijacker
- Webscripting virus
- Macro virus
- Overwrite virus
- Direct Action virus
- Polymorphic/
Metamorphic virus
- Rogueware
- Backdoor (Trapdoor)
- Computer virus
- Worm
- Trojan horse
- Spyware
- Adware
- Scareware
- Ransomware
- Rootkits
- Keyloggers
- Symptoms of Malware Infection
- Increased CPU usage
- Network connection problems
- Unusual behaviour of running programs/Glitching of programs
- Slow computer speed/ performance
- Freezing
- Modification or deletion of files
- Appearance of strange files, programs or desktop icons/tools
- Strange computer behaviour
- Unusual popup
- Unusual error messages
- URL re-direction
- Email spamming
- System/ Software Crash
- Demand for ransom
- Deletion/disappearance of files
- Corruption of files
- Unexpected closure of programs
- Unexpected change in security settings
- Reduced storage space
- Boot Failure
(c) Ways of preventing malware infection
- Installation of antivirus/antimalware/antispyware program
- Regular update of installed antivirus/antimalware program
- Do not visit suspicious sites
- Do not click on suspicious links
- Do not download suspicious email attachment
- Avoid the installation/ use of pirated software or use licensed software
- Use secure Wi-Fi/ Internet access
- Do not accept unknown friendship request
- Configuration/installation of firewall
- Updating of software and operating system
- Scanning of files before downloading
- Regular virus scan of the computer
- Popup Blocking
- Use of Administrator’s account only when necessary
- User Education
- System monitoring for suspicious activities
- Implement e-mail security
- Implement Spam Protection
- Secure access to computer/networks
- User authentication/use of password
The question tested the candidates’ knowledge of computer malware. The Chief Examiner reported that a good number of the candidates who attempted this question were able to define malware but some did not understand the procedure to prevent malware infection.