What is Malware? Defined, Explained, and Explored | Learnwithbiswas

viruses, worms, Trojans and bots are all part of a class of software called malware. 

The overwhelming majority of malware is created to make money illegally, often by stealing sensitive and confidential information from victims' computers and mobile devices. malware can also be used for cyber vandalism, cyber espionage, hacktivism, cyber warfare and various other reasons. malware can make entry onto your computer via questionable file downloads, visiting infected websites, or through email containing a seemingly benign link or attachment. 

common types of malware 

Viruses : almost all viruses are attached to an executable file, which means the virus may exist on a system but will not spread until the user opens the infected program. 

Viruses often originate on the internet and spread when downloading a file infected with a virus, peer to peer file sharing or email attachment 

Trojan : a Trojan is a harmful piece of software that looks legitimate.

 Users are typically tricked into leading and executing it on their system. Trojans can not only steal your sensitive data, they can also give cyber crooks access to your system. 

Trojans are employed to gain access to your computer's financial and personal information. 

Ransomware : ransomware holds your PC hostage and demands money. It locks up your computer threatening to destroy data, demanding rents and more a payment for release of your data files or to regain the ability to use your computer again. 

Spyware: spyware secretly gathers private information about the user activity, such as Internet usage, and logs keystrokes via the process of key logging to steal passwords and other sensitive data.

Worms : Worms can replicate themselves and infect multiple computers on a network causing major damage. Network worms often use computer networks to spread slowing down traffic and relying on security failures such as outdated operating systems, and no antivirus programs installed. In contrast, viruses require the spreading of an infected host file. worms are a standalone software and do not require a host or human help to spread. 

The best way to protect your system from malware is to keep your operating system clean by downloading regular patches, updates and making sure that your computer is protected by the latest antivirus software from a trusted vendor.