They just need to add their own code to it. Cybercriminals can use these to change how your operating system functions.

These rootkits target the core of your computer’s operating system. The challenge here is that the infected programs will still run normally, making it difficult for users to detect the rootkit. Every time you run these programs, you will give hackers access to your computer. These rootkits might infect programs such as Word, Paint, or Notepad. They might also change the way standard applications work. Application rootkitĪpplication rootkits replace standard files in your computer with rootkit files. They only live in your computer’s RAM and will disappear once you reboot your system - though sometimes further work is required to get rid of them. The good news? These rootkits have a short lifespan. These rootkits will carry out harmful activities in the background. This type of rootkit hides in your computer’s RAM, or Random Access Memory. This means that this rootkit is activated even before your computer’s operating system turns on. A bootloader toolkit, then, attacks this system, replacing your computer’s legitimate bootloader with a hacked one. It loads your computer’s operating system when you turn the machine on. Your computer’s bootloader is an important tool. Hackers can use these rootkits to intercept data written on the disk. This type of malware could infect your computer’s hard drive or its system BIOS, the software that is installed on a small memory chip in your computer’s motherboard. The name of this type of rootkit comes from where it is installed on your computer. Here is a look at the different types of rootkits and how you can help protect against them. You might also accidentally download a rootkit through an infected mobile app. How do rootkits get on your computer? You might open an email and download a file that looks safe but is actually a virus. Sometimes the only way to completely eliminate a well-hidden rootkit is to erase your computer’s operating system and rebuild from scratch. Rootkits can also give hackers the ability to subvert or disable security software and track the keys you tap on your keyword, making it easy for criminals to steal your personal information.īecause rootkits can hijack or subvert security software, they are especially hard to detect, making it likely that this type of malware could live on your computer for a long time causing significant damage.

Rootkits can contain a number of tools, ranging from programs that allow hackers to steal your passwords to modules that make it easy for them to steal your credit card or online banking information.

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