What is Malware?

Malware, short for malicious software, represents any software crafted with the intent to cause harm or unwanted actions on digital systems. These systems encompass computers, networks, servers, and mobile devices. Such harmful actions can include the theft of sensitive data, disruption of operational processes, or the unauthorized gaining of system access.

Various forms of malware exist, each employing distinct methods to achieve its malicious objectives. These include viruses that attach to legitimate programs and spread upon execution, self-replicating worms that propagate across networks, and Trojans that masquerade as benign software to deceive users into installing them, subsequently enabling harmful activities. Other notable types include ransomware, which encrypts files for ransom; spyware, which secretly monitors user activity; and adware, which displays intrusive advertisements. Understanding these diverse categories is crucial in recognizing and mitigating the threats posed by malware.