Resolving complex computer tasks requires a very sophisticated skill set; a software developer with a robust understanding of hardware architecture complexities, operating systems intricacies, networking topologies, security protocols, and the right software tools can develop sophisticated algorithms that are elegant and functional. Let’s do a quick recap of what is an algorithm. An algorithm is the list of instructions and logical rules that a computer needs to complete a task. By analyzing the source code of any algorithm, it is possible to evaluate the level of sophistication of its creator.
Malware is another form of software development. Wikipedia defines malware as, “any software intentionally designed to cause disruption to a computer, server, client, or computer network, leak private information, gain unauthorized access to information or systems, deprive users access to information or which unknowingly interferes with the user’s computer security and privacy.” Who are these software developers creating these types of algorithms? Some are created by students pushing boundaries, and some created by software developers learning new techniques. However, the great majority are created by scammers groups, organized crime syndicates, intelligence agencies, government institutions and nation- states.
As we can guess, these algorithms are going to have different levels of sophistication. The great majority of malware is created by unsophisticated developers using dark web resources that provide recommendations and instructions on how to penetrate computer systems. Some of these resources provides a database of algorithms and source code that only requires minimal changes for compilation and deployment. But as indicated in the first paragraph there are experienced developers capable of creating high-level algorithms and code them into professional and elegant malware programs. These are the most successful and damaging malware that exists today.
READ THE FULL ARTICLE BY MARLON ORTIZ IN THE 2022 SPRING EDITION OF GAMING & LEISURE MAGAZINE.