Malware

The general term for malicious software.

Malware refers to the broad classification of computer programs that are designed to deliberately breach computer systems, ruin files, and steal information. These programs are more commonly referred to as computer viruses because they are the virtual equivalent of infectious biological diseases. However, unlike in biological systems, malware do not only infiltrate the system or network, but also tend to stalk users and steal private information.

There are different kinds of malware, with the most popular known as Trojans. These are often programs that appear to be meant for something useful but end up doing what malware does—ruin file systems, network, and security, and steal information.