JavaScript is one of the most common programming languages used in the development of websites. Research shows that over 95% of all websites — about 1.5 billion websites — contain at least some JavaScript code. When browsing the internet, you’ll probably encounter JavaScript code. It allows for unique interactions between the website and your web browser, which otherwise wouldn’t be possible. While most JavaScript code is harmless, though, you should use caution to avoid JavaScript malware.
Overview of JavaScript Malware
JavaScript malware is any form of malicious JavaScript. When you visit a website that contains JavaScript code, you’ll download that code to your computer. Hackers have since taken advantage of this otherwise common programming language by using it to serve and deploy malware. They add the malicious Javascript code to websites, thus infecting visitors with their malware.
In 2016, there were a series of ransomware attacks involving JavaScript. The ransomware was embedded within the JavaScript code of hijacked websites. Visitors who accessed the infected websites downloaded the JavaScript code, thus making them targets for the ransomware. JavaScript malware can include any type of malicious code.
How to Protect Against JavaScript Malware
It’s nearly impossible to avoid JavaScript code when using the internet. As previously mentioned, it’s found on over nine in 10 websites. If you use the internet, you’ll inevitably encounter JavaScript code. Fortunately, you can protect your computer, as well as your network, from JavaScript malware by taking a few precautions.
Keeping your computer’s JavaScript updated to the latest version will lower its risk of infection. While websites contain JavaScript code, your computer still needs the JavaScript software to read it. And like with most types of software, new versions of JavaScript are released regularly.
Using antivirus software will strengthen your computer’s security so that it’s less susceptible to JavaScript malware. Antivirus software works by scanning your computer for known threats. Although there are dozens of types of antivirus software, most of them are capable of detecting JavaScript malware. Antivirus software will offer solutions to deal with JavaScript malware. It can either quarantine or delete the malicious code so that it doesn’t harm your computer.
Avoiding suspicious websites, of course, can help protect against JavaScript malware. If a website’s domain name is similar to that of a well-known brand name, it could be designed specifically to server and deploy JavaScript malware. Avoid suspicious websites such as this. Instead, choose reputable websites from legitimate brands and organizations.
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