What is a Trojan

First we are going to explain what exactly does a Trojan consist of. Its name comes from the Trojan horse, since in this case it is malicious software that disguises itself as a legitimate file. It can be a text document, an image, a program ... Anything that pretends to be safe, but in reality it is a security problem.

Although the basis of a Trojan is the same ( hiding malware within a file that seems legitimate ) the truth is that not all have the same objective. Usually an attacker will search take control somehow from a team. In this way you can steal data or even strain other threats.

A Trojan can affect both computers and mobile devices. In addition, there are for different operating systems. It's about a malware type that has been adapted over time to ensure that cybercriminals meet their objectives in relation to information theft or taking control of systems.

Some examples of important Trojans are Zeus, Emotet, Petya or WannaCry. They have put many companies and also private users at risk. Keep in mind that this type of attack not only affects domestic users, but also targets important organizations.

What is its function and how does it affect

Trojans can have different functions and characteristics. Not everyone acts the same and not all are just as dangerous. We are going to explain what its main functions are and how it will affect the safety of both domestic users and companies and organizations that are infected.

Create a back door

The first objective of a Trojan is to create a back door. It is one of the most common attacks that can occur. This door will allow the attacker to get certain control or access to the device. For example, you will be able to strain data, malicious files that obtain information, etc.

Generally the victim does not quickly find out about the problem. That is, no notable symptoms appear as a first malfunction. This means that an attacker can spend a long time accessing a system until it is discovered, so he has scope to collect data.

Hidden downloads

There are also download Trojans. Your goal is going to be download content on the team without the victim's permission. This will be done in a hidden way, through commands that have previously been programmed to carry out certain actions once you enter the device.

Normally these hidden downloads are linked to more malicious software. They can download viruses and other varieties of malware that affect security and privacy. For example, they could download a keylogger that is in charge of stealing the passwords that the victim puts on the computer.

Steal information

Another clear function is to steal information from the equipment they have infected. They can collect personal data of the victim, spy, collect data related to navigation, programs that he uses, files that are on that computer, etc. You can steal all kinds of data.

Those data can be used for different purposes. For example they could be used to perform personalized Phishing attacks, steal confidential data from a company or an organization and then sell it to the competition or even extort that data and threaten to make it public.

Remote access

Another objective of the Trojans is usually to grant a full remote access to an attacker. Basically you will be able to act as if you were physically in front of the team. You will be able to control the system, install or uninstall applications, delete files, modify documents, etc.

This also allows the attacks to be expanded, since with full remote access to a system a very large range of possibilities opens up for cybercriminals. They will be able to steal data or install any application without permission.

DDoS attacks

On the other hand, mention should also be made of DDoS attacks or distributed denial of service. A Trojan can launch attacks of this type to saturate a server and that it cannot respond to the legitimate requests that another user will make and will find that it does not work.

Trojans can be designed for this purpose and the objective here is to affect the proper functioning of a company, for example. They can serve as a way to launch attacks that engage teams based on launching multiple requests.

Tips to avoid this type of malware

As you can see, a Trojan is a major security threat. Taking steps to avoid being victims of these attacks is essential. Therefore, we are going to give some essential advice so that our devices are properly protected and no problems appear.

Use security programs

Something very important to maintain security and avoid Trojans and other threats is to have a good antivirus. There are many options. One of the most used is Windows Defender itself, the antivirus that comes with Microsoft systems. However, there are many options, both free and paid. For example Avast or Bitdefender are some alternatives.

But beyond an antivirus, you can also count on a firewall. It is another tool that will protect Internet connections and prevent attacks. In addition, you can always use browser plugins to alert you in case of accessing a malicious site or downloading a dangerous file.

Keep everything updated

Of course it's essential have everything updated. In fact, cybercriminals can take advantage of a vulnerability to strain a Trojan. They could use a bug in Windows or some program you use to strain malicious software like this without you noticing and being able to control the device.

In the case of Windows, to update the system you have to go to Start, enter Configuration and access Windows Update. It will automatically show you possible pending updates and you must add them to have everything ready and protected to get the best operation and also avoid problems.

Install only official applications

Something very important, and that is not always taken into account, is to install only official applications. It is true that there are many options for almost everything, but the ideal is to only use programs that are reliable, safe and that have not been maliciously modified to steal data or, in this case, strain Trojans.

To achieve this it is important to download the programs only from official sources. For example, go to the official website of the application or use secure stores such as Google Play. In this way we will have more guarantees that this program has not been modified by a third party to steal information.

Common sense

But without a doubt the most important thing is common sense. In most cyber attacks the hacker is going to need us to commit some error. For example, clicking on a dangerous link, downloading an insecure file, etc. This makes it essential to take care of navigation and not make mistakes.

For example, you should make sure you don't download attachments that reach you via email if you don't really know the source and don't know for sure if it may or may not be a threat. The same when logging in or opening any link. You should always check that it is reliable and will not be a problem.

In short, as you have seen, Trojans are a security threat that can compromise your personal data or the operation of the system. It can have different functions and you must always maintain the protection of the equipment. You have seen a series of essential tips to avoid problems.