What Is Malware and How Does It Affect Your Computer?
Malware is software that’s designed to harm a device, network or user in some way. Depending on the type of malware, this can range from encrypting or deleting files to altering core computing functions or monitoring end users’ computer activity.
Most infections occur when you inadvertently click on a malicious link in an email or visit a compromised website. Hackers also embed malicious computer code in peer-to-peer file-sharing services or free software download bundles. These programs run on computers at the same time, infecting the entire system with malware.
Viruses, worms and Trojans are types of malware that attach themselves to other programs or files to spread from one machine to another. Other types of malware include ransomware, which encrypts files and demands payment for the decryption key; adware, which redirects browsers or displays unwanted advertisements; spyware, which secretly monitors user activity; and rootkits, which provide privileged access to an operating system and hide from detection.
Regardless of the type of malware, all cybercriminals share a common objective — reward themselves at the victim’s expense. This may be monetary gain by stealing passwords or financial information, or it might be damaging a business’s reputation by revealing confidential data on the dark web. In extreme cases, malware can shut down critical infrastructure such as power grids or hospitals to cause service disruptions. It can also steal industrial secrets that took years to develop and erase a company’s competitive advantage when sold on the black market.