Linux Systems and Viruses: What You Should Know (2024)

FAQs

Do I have to worry a lot about viruses under Linux? ›

You've got an Ubuntu system, and your years of working with Windows makes you concerned about viruses -- that's fine. There is no virus by definition in almost any known and updated Unix-like operating system, but you can always get infected by various malware like worms, trojans, etc.

With its user privileges, protection from system-wide infections and open-source nature, viruses are rare with Linux systems. Nonetheless, they can still occur. There have been dozens of Linux-specific viruses, some of which include Arches, Binon, Bliss, Brundle, RELx, Rike, WIt Virus and ZipWorn.

Linux malware includes viruses, Trojans, worms and other types of malware that affect the Linux family of operating systems. Linux, Unix and other Unix-like computer operating systems are generally regarded as very well-protected against, but not immune to, computer viruses.

Yes, Linux devices do need antivirus protection. Although Linux is perceived to be more secure than other desktop operating systems, there are still malware and viruses that can affect Linux computers. In fact, the amount of Linux malware has been steadily growing over the past few years.

Linux ranked above Mac for malware threats in 2022

The website reports that Windows suffered 54% of attacks, while Linux suffered 39.4% of infections.

What is Kaspersky Virus Removal Tool for Linux and what does it do? KVRT for Linux can't monitor attacks on your computer or server in real time — it's a free application for scanning computers running a Linux-based OS and cleaning them of detected threats.

Avast Antivirus and Sophos Intercept X are also good choices for Linux, renowned for competitive pricing and comprehensive security. As cyberattacks become increasingly sophisticated, the importance of having an effective antivirus, even for Linux-based systems, has grown exponentially.

Linux is more secure because it's so obscure. Cybercriminals tend to target Windows machines. After all, with far more users to exploit, it's more profitable. Also, Linux is difficult to target accurately because it comes in so many different distributions.

Why can't Linux get viruses? ›

It's built strong, making it tough for viruses to take hold. And there are lots of different versions of Linux out there, all based on the same core, which adds extra layers of security. So, while Linux isn't bulletproof, its design and diversity make it a harder target for hackers.

Yes. Ransomware can infect Linux devices, including Linux servers, PCs and cloud infrastructure. It's a common misconception that only Windows systems are vulnerable to ransomware. While it's true that 90% of ransomware attacks target Windows, the rise of Linux ransomware is cause for legitimate concern.

Linux users do not have root privileges by default

In Linux, if the user cannot access root privileges, it is more difficult for viruses and Trojans to gain root privileges. In Windows, on the other hand, applications can only be run with administrative rights in a few steps.

In linux systems we use repositories maintained by distributions to install software. This approach makes it very difficult to get infected by malware, as opposed to windows approach where you just run random executables downloaded from the internet.

Fake virus warnings are the common tactic used by scammers to trick you, and if you're not cautious, they might get real malware to your device.

There are many different kinds of viruses that affect devices and operating systems in many different ways. Computer viruses spread through networks and connected devices, and they can crash computers, disrupt systems, steal personal information, and cause a variety of other problems.

Linux is designed with strong security features, making it safe even without a firewall when not connected to a network. One of these security measures is called Security-Enhanced Linux (SELinux), which includes special tools and changes to the core of the system to enforce security policies.

While Ubuntu's inherent security features mitigate many common threats, it is not immune to malware or malicious software. Despite its secure foundation, Ubuntu users may encounter potential risks, especially when downloading software from untrusted sources or executing commands without caution.