The categories are based on how malware works and how it spreads. Types of malwareĬommon types of malware include viruses, Trojans, spyware, keyloggers, worms, ransomware, adware, scareware, rootkits, cryptominers, and logic bombs. Let’s examine some of the most common forms of malware. Malware is a broad category, with different forms of malware impacting devices and systems in various ways. Hackers aim malware attacks against individuals, companies, and even governments. Malware is at the root of most cyberattacks, including the large-scale data breaches that lead to widespread identity theft and fraud. Malware attacks can result in anything from data theft to the destruction of entire systems or devices. Other types of malware can lock up important files, spam you with ads, or redirect you to malicious websites. Malware can crack weak passwords, bore into systems, and spread through networks. Viruses are just one type of malicious software. That’s why all viruses are malware, but not all types of malware are viruses.

It’s the how and the why that separate one type of malware from the next.

It’s this malicious intent that characterizes the malware definition - the meaning of malware is the damage it can inflict on a computer, computer system, server, or network.

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