What is a common way that malware is distributed through email?

Enhance your data security knowledge with our Online Data Security Test. Utilize a wealth of questions and detailed explanations to prepare.

Malware is commonly distributed through email in the form of attachments in phishing emails. These emails often appear to be from trusted sources, enticing recipients to click on the attachments, which may contain harmful software. Attackers frequently use social engineering tactics to make the emails seem legitimate, prompting individuals to download the attachments without realizing the potential risk.

This method exploits users' trust and can lead to widespread infection if multiple recipients fall victim to the same tactic. Once opened, the malicious attachments can execute harmful actions on the recipient's device, such as stealing information, encrypting files, or creating backdoors for further exploitation.

Although direct downloads from trusted sources and links to reputable websites may seem safe, they do not represent the primary method of malware distribution. Similarly, shortened URLs from friends can be a potential risk, but they don’t specifically relate to typical phishing scenarios in the same way that attachments in phishing emails do. Therefore, the use of harmful attachments in phishing emails stands out as a prevalent method for malware distribution.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy