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Malware is software used by cyber-attackers to compromise electronic devices and steal critical information, including credit card and bank account information. It can also damage or corrupt a device’s systems or files, and it may spy on a device’s usage to steal data or impede the device’s operability. Malware’s objectives are limited only to the attackers’ imagination and intent, but common objectives include stealing information or resources for monetary gain and causing disruption to computers and systems.

Creating and spreading malware is a profitable business for many threat actors. As computer programming became more popular and high-level programming languages developed, criminals seized the opportunity to write malicious code. Over time, organized cybercrime groups emerged with clearly-defined responsibilities and specialized malware development and distribution activities.

Threat actors can use a variety of techniques to hide and disguise the malware they distribute. Some tactics include time delays, which let the malware lie dormant for a period of time, then activate; fingerprinting, which allows the malware to only execute on certain system configurations; and evasion methods, such as modifying the behavior of existing security programs to avoid detection.

The most obvious sign of a possible malware infection is when a device begins to slow down, as the malware takes over some of its processing power. Additionally, a decrease in available storage space is another indication of malware activity, as some types of malware download and install additional files. Another sign is a noticeable increase in the use of a device’s battery, as a malware attack may be using it to mine cryptocurrency or blast out spam.