Data Processing Paper 2, WASSCE (SC), 2023

Question 2

 

(a)(i)Whatis malware in computing?                                                                                                                      

  1. List three types of malware.                                                                                                                        
  2. State three symptoms of malware infection    
  3. Give two ways of preventing malware infection.  

Observation

 

The expected answer is:
(a) (i)     Meaning of Malware in Computing
– It is a malicious software/ any software/program that disrupts computer operations.
- Any software that gains access to private computer system to gather sensitive information or display unwanted/unsolicited adverts
- A malicious software that is harmful to the computer or its user.
                        (ii) Types of Malware


  • Multipartite virus
  • Resident virus
  • Browser Hijacker
  • Webscripting virus                        
  • Macro virus
  • Overwrite virus
  • Direct Action virus
  • Polymorphic/

      Metamorphic virus

  • Rogueware
  • Backdoor (Trapdoor)
  • Computer virus
  • Worm
  • Trojan horse
  • Spyware
  • Adware
  • Scareware 
  • Ransomware
  • Rootkits
  • Keyloggers

     

  • Symptoms of Malware Infection

  • Increased CPU usage

  • Network connection problems
  • Unusual behaviour of running programs/Glitching of programs
  • Slow computer speed/ performance
  • Freezing
  • Modification or deletion of files
  • Appearance of strange files, programs or desktop icons/tools
  • Strange computer behaviour
  • Unusual popup
  • Unusual error messages
  • URL re-direction
  • Email spamming
  • System/ Software Crash
  • Demand for ransom
  • Deletion/disappearance of files
  • Corruption of files
  • Unexpected closure of programs
  • Unexpected change in security settings
  • Reduced storage space
  • Boot Failure

 

   (c)  Ways of preventing malware infection

  • Installation of antivirus/antimalware/antispyware program
  • Regular update of installed antivirus/antimalware program
  • Do not visit suspicious sites
  • Do not click on suspicious links
  • Do not download suspicious email attachment
  • Avoid the installation/ use of pirated software or use licensed software
  • Use secure Wi-Fi/ Internet access
  • Do not accept unknown friendship request
  • Configuration/installation of firewall
  • Updating of software and operating system
  • Scanning of files before downloading                                 
  • Regular virus scan of the computer
  • Popup Blocking
  • Use of Administrator’s account only when necessary
  • User Education
  • System monitoring for suspicious activities
  • Implement e-mail security
  • Implement Spam Protection
  • Secure access to computer/networks
  • User authentication/use of password

                                                         
The question tested the candidates’ knowledge of computer malware. The Chief Examiner reported that a good number of the candidates who attempted this question were able to define malware but some did not understand the procedure to prevent malware infection.