How to Check if Your Linux System is Infected with a Virus

The best and most secure Operating System (OS) by design is Linux. Most devices, including Android OS, mobile operating systems, Chromebooks, and tablets, use Linux as a baseline. Unfortunately, Linux has become a target for viruses and malware despite general beliefs that the OS is immune to such data and network security threats. No OS is capable of completely removing online risks.

We must recognize that Linux, though safer than other servers, can still fall victim to attacks in network security. Therefore, users must take precautions and integrate robust cybersecurity projects to protect businesses. Beforehand, however, you need to check your current Linux OS to make sure you are not facing compromise. This article will cover the Linux network security issues, cloud security scanners, and best practices to consider when dealing with any exploits in cybersecurity.

What Threats Do Linux Users Face? 

Companies must utilize new strategies and network security toolkits to combat the growing popularity of Linux malware and ransomware. Regardless of what OS you use, whether Windows or Linux, you need to understand the risk your business faces.

Linux was worth 5.33 billion USD in 2021, and its value has since increased, as there is an expectation that Linux will hold a value of around 22.15 billion USD by 2029. Due to Linux’s recognition as a strong combatant against malware attacks in network security, such exploits in cybersecurity have only expanded.

Threat actors implement cross-platform ransomware between Android, Linux, and iOS to make their impact more harmful. Therefore, companies must research what network security threats they face and what services will help mitigate such risks best.

Malware

Malware is a blanket term for viruses and software designed to disrupt a smartphone, personal computer, laptop, or server by interfering with a computer network’s functions to create data leaks and cloud security breaches. Here are a few attacks to know when using Linux:

State-Sponsored Attacks 

State-sponsored attacks occur when organizations and individuals monitor countries or nations to gain information. During the Russia-Ukraine dispute, companies deployed Wiper malware to see how nation-state groups reacted to the war.

Internet of Things (IoT) Malware 

IoT houses a family of viruses, including Mozi, Mirai, and XorDDos, that can launch Denial-of-Service (DoS) attacks once they take over a server. Linux malware attacks in network security increased by thirty-five percent in 2021 because of these viruses.

Cryptojacking 

Cryptojacking involves attackers using software specifically designed to generate cryptocurrencies through computational resources. The first cryptojacking case reported was in 2018, when a threat actor infiltrated Tesla's Kubernetes. The most significant crypto-miner families are Sysrv and XMRig.

Ransomware 

Ransomware blocks access to your device and encrypts all your data. Notable ransomware gangs like Hive, REvil, DarkSide, and Conti carefully plan and execute malware samples to target assets in a Linux host during a cloud security breach. Conti and Defray777/RansomExx currently work together to inflict harm on businesses.

Rootkits

Rootkits are malicious software programs malicious hackers use to gain privileged, administrative access to an OS, interfering with how your computer functions and processes data. Once activated, a rootkit can cause more damage, as it can integrate Trojans, keyloggers, bots, and ransomware to harm your data and network security. Lightning framework, or Swiss Army Knife, can be a backdoor that grants threat actors the opportunity to install rootkits with Secure Shell (SSH).

Popular Open-Source Malware/Virus/Rootkit Scanners

Here are a variety of open-source cloud security scanners and network security toolkits to consider when integrating cybersecurity projects into your Linux system and business:

Lynis

Lynis is an incredible open-source cloud security audit scanner that assists security professionals and system administrators by scanning devices and security systems. Lynis hardens your devices against cloud security breaches and data leaks. This scanner works well with Linux, BSD, and macOS devices. 

Chkrootkit

Check Rootkit helps protect your device from malware, botnets, and rootkits through easily navigable resources. It's simple to install, which is excellent for beginners, and it has been repeatedly tested to ensure it can still combat data and network security threats.

Linux Malware Detect

Linux Malware Detect (LMD) is one of the best open-source malware scanners available, as it uses signatures created through network Intrusion Detection Systems to detect malware. This Linux malware scanner goes through specific files and systems based on your needs.

ClamAV

ClamAV works well for all devices, including macOS, BSD, and Windows. It includes a GUI version to catch malware, viruses, and trojans. This is the most frequently utilized anti-virus software for Linux users, and you can install it right here.

Top Tips to Prevent Malware Attacks on Linux 

Here are a few practical solutions to protect your data and network security on Linux:

Use Strong Passwords

Simple-to-remember passwords are the easiest to guess, so you must implement complicated, strong passwords on Linux devices and applications. Passwords should consist of letters, numbers, and special characters, and you should turn on Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) to keep your servers extra safe. 

Restrict User Access

Minimize user privileges only to what workers need and nothing more. This keeps your Linux devices protected from network security threats. Only trusted users who need advanced access should be granted such privileges.

Use a VPN

When browsing online, use a VPN so your Linux device does not pick up viruses from different websites. Every device and server has a VPN, such as this one for Chrome. Install a suitable VPN so you can browse safely.

Pay Attention to Fine Logs 

Linux devices offer several logs with tons of information you can scan, so read the information for any possible discrepancies or exploits in cybersecurity. You can use various network security toolkits to perform this scanning automatically, saving time and energy. 

Keep Your Device Updated 

People with old or un-updated devices face the brunt of attacks in network security that infect their systems with viruses. You must keep your servers up-to-date to avoid ten times more cybersecurity vulnerabilities than fully updated businesses. Make sure to update your Linux device regularly.

Our Final Thoughts on How to Check if Your Linux System is Infected with a Virus 

Malware and ransomware on Linux devices have become a growing issue, so you must protect your business with all methods applicable. Remember the network security threats you might face and the scanners and tips we have recommended to assist you. Use these best practices to stay on track in protecting your Linux devices and systems against attacks in network security that could lead to compromise.