Malware in Emails: Does Your SMB Have an Infection?

Summary: The types of malicious code embedded in emails, including computer worms, malware email examples, phishing email examples and what to do about an infected computer.

How Can Small Businesses Prevent Malware?

Malware or “malicious software” is an ongoing cyberthreat. Cybercriminals continue to find new vulnerabilities through which their malware may be launched. Additionally, the increase in remote access work and the ever-expanding Internet of Things (IoT) universe mean the target landscape for cyberattacks has never been greater.

Q: What is email malware and why is it dangerous for small businesses?

A: Email malware is malicious software delivered through email messages, usually hidden in attachments or links. When opened, it can infect computers, steal sensitive information or allow attackers to access business systems. For small businesses, email malware can lead to data breaches, financial loss and disruptions to daily operations.

What Are Some Malware Email Examples?

Unfortunately for the unsuspecting user, there is a variety of malware available to hackers to infect emails:

• Spyware – A spyware attack can enable the cybercriminal to “spy” on the user’s actions on their device 24/7. By capturing and logging the user’s keystrokes, this type of malware provides hackers with access to your most private data, such as passwords, bank accounts, etc.
• Adware – Adware is one of the most common malware attacks. Adware can bombard the user’s devices with unwanted ads and by clicking on those ads, the user can be tricked into downloading more dangerous types of malware
• Fileless Malware – Fileless malware doesn’t directly attack files. Fileless malware uses non-file objects such as macros and other system-related tools. Because there is no specific file infected, this type of malware can be undetected for extended periods of time. Traditional antivirus software can’t recognize this attack as there are no infected “files”
• Viruses – If a user impulsively clicks on a suspicious file attached to an email, it will then be launched and can infect a business’s entire system and spread to other ones. In addition, viruses can delete, move, encrypt or corrupt your business’ data
• Computer Worms – Although worms can spread to multiple devices and systems, worms don’t infect other programs. Instead, a worm targets known software vulnerabilities and exploits them before developers fix them
• Trojans – Trojans are malicious programs disguised as legitimate ones. Once tricked into launching them, users are either directed to a malicious website, or the Trojan is launched into the users’ network. Trojans are harder to detect because they employ social engineering to spread
• Ransomware – Ransomware is one of the most prominent cybercrimes. Ransomware encrypts a device's data, making it impossible for the user to access. Then, as in any “kidnapping,” a ramson is demanded before the data will be unlocked. Hackers also threaten that if the ransom is not paid by a deadline, the ransom will double daily. Finally, unpaid ransoms can lead to the hacker deleting all the user’s data
• Bots – Bots are small software programs that clandestinely perform automated functions without any interaction. What makes Bots so nefarious is that they infect multiple devices, creating a “botnet.” Once fully operational, botnets can launch massive cyberattacks

Q: What are warning signs that an email might contain malware?

A: Suspicious emails often include unexpected attachments, urgent requests, unfamiliar senders, or unusual wording. Messages may ask employees to open files, enable macros, or click links quickly. Poor grammar, mismatched email addresses, and attachments with unusual file types can also signal that an email may contain malware.

Phishing emails are the most popular method hackers use to steal private data and infect systems. A phishing attack can have devastating consequences for small and midsized business targets. The FBI called compromising business email “one of the most financially damaging online crimes.”

What Are Some Phishing Email Examples?

• A user opens an email that appears to be from a trusted source. At first glance, the email address, domain and other visible aspects look authentic. However, the differences between genuine and phishing emails are often subtle. Perhaps the only difference in the email address is the domain name. Maybe instead of being spelled “@gmail.com,” the fake email domain is “@qmail.com.” The unsuspecting user doesn’t notice the “g” was replaced by a “q” and impulsively clicks on an embedded link that redirects them to a malicious website
• Phishing emails often have a threatening “Important Notice” heading in the email. The body of the email demands you take specific action to keep an account from going into default. For example, the email might urgently request that the user fill out a form sharing personal information to resolve the issue. This type of email preys on fear and prompts the user to act impulsively under pressure

Q: How can small businesses reduce the risk of email malware?

A: Businesses can reduce risk by using strong email security filters, antivirus software, and regular system updates. Employees should be trained to recognize phishing attempts and avoid opening unknown attachments or links. Using multifactor authentication and restricting macro-enabled files can also help prevent malware from spreading through email.

What Can Small Businesses Do About Malware in Emails?

Having malware email examples, phishing email examples, and the facts on computer worms can help you protect your SMB. But as your business grows, expands its network and adds more devices such as smart controls, wireless access, and remote access, your network vulnerability grows, too. IT security firms specialize in proactive cybersecurity and network security and have an array of solutions for small and midsized businesses to defend against cyberattacks and other network data breaches.

Connect with us if you’re in the New York City area, or contact a small business IT security expert near you to learn more about malware in emails, infected computers and how to reduce the risks of malware for your company. The longer malware stays in your system, the more company and client data is compromised.

Q: What should a small business do if malware is opened from an email?

A: If malware is suspected, the affected device should be disconnected from the network immediately to prevent further spread. Notify IT staff or a cybersecurity provider right away and run antivirus or endpoint protection scans. Changing compromised passwords and reviewing systems for additional infections helps restore security quickly.