Malware is a portmanteau of malicious software. It is the overall term for a number of types of malicious software that causes harm to computer systems. To combat the various types of malicious software we use anti-malware software – these are types of utility software. There are new types of malicious software being released all the time, so it is important to keep anti-malware software updated.
The type of malware we are interested in are:
Viruses
A virus is code that can copy itself to damage a computer, by deleting data or corrupting operating systems. Viruses often require user interaction to run an infected file to spread.
Worms
Worms differ to viruses by being standalone software that can replicate themselves by exploiting weaknesses in systems, often without needing to interact with a user.
Trojans
Trojans spread by hiding in otherwise legitimate looking software.
Spyware
Spyware allows remote users (attackers) to obtain information from infected computers, often allowing remote access to files and controls.
Ransomware
Ransomware encrypts files in a target computer and requires a ransom (using cryptocurrency such a bitcoin) to be paid to decrypt them. These ransoms are often scams with no chance of decryption even if the ransom is paid.
Adware
Adware is malicious software that serves the users ads. Some will monitor your behaviour and server more specific ads more suited to you. Some of these ads can link to other types of malicious software.