How does malware usually distribute?

Malware typically distributes through malicious links, attachments, or compromised software because these methods exploit various human behaviors and vulnerabilities in systems. Cybercriminals often use social engineering tactics to trick users into clicking links or downloading attachments that contain malware. For example, an email may seem legitimate and contain an attachment that, when opened, installs the malware onto the user's device. Similarly, compromised software may look like a trusted application but can harbor malicious code that is executed when the software is installed or run.

The other distribution methods mentioned are less commonly associated with malware propagation. For instance, while newsletters and ads can occasionally be used for distributing malware, they are not the primary channels. Open network connections may expose systems to threats but are not a direct means of distributing malware. User-installed applications do present risk if they are malicious, but the key point of malware distribution primarily hinges on deceptive practices that involve links and attachments that users interact with. This highlights the importance of vigilance and awareness when it comes to cybersecurity.