NIST describes malware, also known as malicious code, as a program that is covertly inserted into another program with the intent to destroy data, run destructive or intrusive programs, or otherwise compromise the confidentiality, integrity, or availability of the victim’s data, applications, or operating system. Malware is the most common external threat to most hosts, causing widespread damage and disruption and necessitating extensive recovery efforts within most organizations. (Source)
This link from Microsoft identifies reputable security companies that provide consumer security software that is compatible with Windows. This Ransomware Guide includes ransomware prevention best practices and a ransomware response checklist. This DoD Security Tip provides guidance on malicious code and how to protect an organization’s information systems from it. This NIST Special Publication provides recommendations for improving an organization’s malware incident prevention measures. This sample policy from Norfolk State University is an example of how to establish a policy and procedure for protection from malicious code. This guide from Salisbury University is designed to inform users of the risks and symptoms of malware infection on PCs, as well as prevention and removal methods. This sample policy from Sam Houston State University is an example of a policy to reduce risk by protecting against malware. This SANS whitepaper discusses several common practices which, when implemented together, will greatly decrease, and perhaps almost stop malware. This SANS whitepaper discusses how ransomware works and dissects its life cycle into multiple stages. The official Ubuntu website provides open source and proprietary antivirus options that support Ubuntu and other flavors of Linux. This sample policy from The University of Mary Washington is an example of a standard to promote a secure computing environment. This YouTube video discusses malware in the context of information security.
AMTSO is the Anti-Malware Testing Standards Organization, a community of over 60 security and testing companies from around the world. This document provides assessment guidance for Level 1 of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). This document provides assessment guidance for conducting Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) assessments for Level 2. The purpose of this publication is to provide procedures for assessing the CUI requirements in NIST Special Publication 800-171. NIST resources that defines requirements for review, assessment, and approval of system maintenance tools NIST resource that defines the requirements for malicious code protection.