Rootkit viruses
Rootkits have coexisted with the computer world for over 20 years, allowing hackers to access (almost) any computer.
What are Rootkits?
First of all, Rootkits are malware, malicious software created ad hoc to attack devices (computers, tablets, servers, smartphones, etc.).
These malware attack devices of all types and can access computer systems because in many cases they are not recognized by the protection services.
The danger of this threat does not concern the devices that contain some photos of their travels. Rather, the risk bar is raised if the object of the infection is company computers.
The Rootkit activity involves more than sensitive data: from customers, suppliers, patents, projects, economic information, financial situations, data in general, and much more.
The goal of a Rootkit hacker will be to provide the complete package of actions needed to access someone else’s computer.
The effects of having a Rootkit on the pc
As soon as a Rootkit manages to nestle in a PC, it allows access by the hacker like a system administrator.
Access to the device is carried out without the knowledge of the user who owns the PC. And there are no obvious symptoms that determine its presence.
Given how difficult it is to detect the threat of a Rootkit and clearly distinguish its symptoms, it is essential to consult with certified experts, specialists who know the processes suitable for Rootkit removal, and all anti-Rootkit solutions.
What are the effects of Rootkit on companies?
Rootkit viruses are often the cause of many problems for both smaller and larger companies: strategic or confidential information, corporate marketing projects and everything else can be intercepted by this cyber attack.
Beyond the internal risks, the Rootkit issue also raises legal problems for the company. It is the customer data that could be stolen, or those of other commercial agents, or those of the production chain.
What are the symptoms to recognize a Rootkit?
Although everything happens without the knowledge of the computer user, it should still be emphasized that some symptoms can be identified as possible indicators of the presence of a Rootkit.
Here is the list of possible symptoms of a Rootkit attack:
- Device malfunctions
- Strange active processes
- Slowing down of web browsing or of the device itself
- Unknown software installed
- Suspicious alteration of system settings
- Appearance of BSODs (blue error screens)
How to remove a Rootkit
There are methods to make this software ineffective. Removing a Rootkit virus can be resolved through the implementation of professional endpoint software or even through the direct intervention of a specialist.
This second option could be necessary when malicious software is now present within a corporate network: the entire supply chain could be exposed to incalculable risks.
The risk of removing a Rootkit by yourself
When looking for news and information on removing malware from corporate devices, you often come across some articles on do-it-yourself.
Searching you will often find free software that is referred to as Rootkit removal.
However, care must be taken, as they often hide unwanted surprises: these programs passed off as Rootkit sanitizers, once installed, are themselves the carriers of malware.
This is why it is worth relying on a certified company.
Qualified technicians do not use these methodologies. Rather, they offer various professional and qualitatively certified solutions.
How to prevent the problem
Today’s technologies are in constant advancement: the more fragmented and complex corporate networks, the increased number of devices in the company, are all reasons that lead us to strongly emphasize that the only real way to prevent Rootkits lies in the choice of relying on qualified technicians for preventive advice that puts all the devices in our possession fully protected from any possible attack.