Understanding Email Attacks and Malicious Code

A computer screen displaying a warning of a phishing attack with a lock icon, a danger sign, and a computer keyboard and mouse on a desk with a digital background.

By Emma Taylor

Today, we will explore the concept of email attacks using malicious code, a specific type of targeted email attack.

1. Definition of Malware Email Attacks

A malware-enabled email attack is an attempt to infiltrate a user’s computer, network, or compromise a server by using zero-day malware, URLs (links), or attachments with the exfiltrating sensitive information. Such attacks using malicious code can be broadly classified into two main categories: phishing emails that redirect users to secondary or further intermediaries via URLs, and emails that embed malicious code within attachments or links contained within these attachments.

2. Types of Attacks Using Malware

Zero-day Malware Attacks

Zero-day malware refers to malicious software that is new or unknown to security systems. This means creating and deploying malware that exploits vulnerabilities in a system before security programs are developed and implemented, either through a link or attachment. Attackers take advantage of this by using zero-day malware to send deceptive emails containing with dangerous attachments or links. Since this malware is not yet recorded in big data databases, security systems struggle to recognize and prevent it. Unsuspecting users who click on these deceptive elements may inadvertently allow the malware to infiltrate their computers, potentially causing harm like deleting or damaging files and programs.

Malware in Attachment

Attackers conceal malicious software (malware) within files that appear to be ordinary attachments delivered through email. These files can mimic regular documents, images, videos, or various other file types and may feature deceptive file extensions. In some cases, hackers may even spoof the sender's email address to deceive recipients into opening these harmful files.

Malware in URL

An illustrative representation explaining URL or link attacks, depicting how malicious URLs can be disguised as legitimate links in emails, leading to potential disclosure of information.

Malicious URL attacks occur when malicious actors insert harmful links in emails with the intent to deceive recipients into visiting dangerous websites. These harmful links can be embedded directly in the email text or concealed within large attachments. The risk arises when someone clicks on these links, as doing so can activate harmful software, not only when they first receive the email but anytime they click on the link.

2. Paths of Malicious Code Infection

Phishing Attacks Through Website Visit Messages

An illustration of a hand holding a smartphone displaying multiple urgent and dangerous email notifications, symbolizing phishing attacks or scams.

Downloading Files from Personal Emails

File Sharing via USB or Peer-to-Peer Networks

Exploiting Operating System Vulnerabilities Due to Insufficient Security Settings

In future discussions, we will explore a wider variety of email attacks that employ malicious code. It is strongly recommended to conduct email security inspections to evaluate and enhance security in relation to these issues.