Malware

What is Malware?

Malware is an umbrella term for any software intentionally designed to cause harm. Types include viruses (self-replicating code), trojans (disguised as legitimate software), ransomware (encrypts data for ransom), spyware (monitors user activity), worms (self-propagating across networks), and rootkits (hide malicious activity). Malware can be delivered through phishing emails, malicious websites, software vulnerabilities, and compromised downloads. Defense requires antivirus software, email filtering, patch management, and user education.