Malware is malicious software and refers to any software that is designed to cause harm to computer systems, networks, or users. Malware can take many forms. Individuals and organizations need to be aware of the different types of malware and take steps to protect their systems, such as using antivirus software, keeping software and systems up-to-date, and being cautious when opening email attachments or downloading software from the internet. What is Malware? Malware is software that gets into the system without user consent to steal the user’s private and confidential data, including bank details and passwords. They also generate annoying pop-up ads and change system settings. Malware includes computer viruses, worms, Trojan horses, ransomware, spyware, and other malicious programs. Individuals and organizations need to be aware of the different types of malware and take steps to protect their systems, such as using antivirus software, keeping software and systems up-to-date, and being cautious when opening email attachments or downloading software from the internet. What Does Malware Do? Malware is designed to harm and exploit your computer or network. It can steal sensitive information like passwords and credit card numbers, disrupt your system’s operations, and even allow attackers to gain unauthorized access to your device. Some types of malware, such as ransomware, encrypt your files and demand payment to unlock them, while spyware monitors your activities and sends the information back to the attacker. Additionally, malware can spread to other devices on the same network, making it a significant threat. Protecting your devices with up-to-date antivirus software and being cautious about your open links and attachments can help mitigate these risks. Why Do Cybercriminals Use Malware? Cybercriminals use malware, including all forms of malicious software including viruses, for various purposes. Using deception to induce a victim to provide personal information for identity theft Theft of customer credit card information or other financial information Taking over several computers and using them to launch denial-of-service attacks against other networks Using infected computers to mine for cryptocurrencies like bitcoin. -- Types of Malware Viruses - A Virus is a malicious executable code attached to another executable file. The virus spreads when an infected file is passed from system to system. Viruses can be harmless or they can modify or delete data. Opening a file can trigger a virus. Once a program virus is active, it will infect other programs on the computer. Worms - Worms replicate themselves on the system, attaching themselves to different files and looking for pathways between computers, such as computer network that shares common file storage areas. Worms usually slow down networks. A virus needs a host program to run but worms can run by themselves. After a worm affects a host, it is able to spread very quickly over the network. Trojan horse - A Trojan horse is malware that carries out malicious operations under the appearance of a desired operation such as playing an online game. A Trojan horse varies from a virus because the Trojan binds itself to non-executable files, such as image files, and audio files.