Malware (short for malicious software) is any software specifically designed to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized access to a computer system or network. It includes a wide range of harmful software such as viruses, worms, Trojan horses, ransomware, spyware, adware, and more.
The primary purposes of malware are to steal sensitive information, spy on users, hijack system resources, or cause harm to the system or network. Malware can spread through email attachments, malicious websites, software downloads, or by exploiting vulnerabilities in a system.
Types of malware include:
- **Viruses**: Code that attaches itself to a program or file and spreads between systems when the file is executed.
- **Worms**: Self-replicating malware that spreads across networks without needing to attach to a file or program.
- **Trojan Horses**: Malware disguised as legitimate software that creates backdoors for attackers.
- **Ransomware**: Locks or encrypts data on a user's system and demands payment for restoration.
- **Spyware**: Secretly gathers information about the user and sends it to a third party.
- **Adware**: Automatically displays or downloads advertisements, often collecting user data.
Proper cybersecurity measures like firewalls, antivirus software, and staying vigilant about suspicious files or links help in protecting against malware.