Glossary

Malware

Any software designed to harm a device, steal data, or extort the user.

Definition

Malware (malicious software) is the umbrella term for viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, spyware, adware, rootkits, and information-stealers. The motivation is usually money — stolen credentials, ransom payments, ad fraud — though state-sponsored malware also exists.

Modern infections rarely come from "weird websites." They come from phishing emails, malicious documents, fake software updates, compromised ad networks, and unpatched software. Defense is layered: updates, password manager, MFA, backups, and a healthy dose of skepticism.

Example

An employee opens an Excel file from a vendor email and clicks 'enable macros'. The macro downloads a remote-access trojan, which gives an attacker a foothold inside the company network.

Frequently asked questions

Can my phone get malware?

Yes — especially Android phones that side-load apps from outside the official store.

Is a virus the same as malware?

A virus is one type of malware. The category includes many others.

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