Malicious software, commonly referred to as malware, is a type of software specifically designed with intent to harm, exploit, or disrupt computer systems, networks, or devices without the knowledge or consent of the user. Malware encompasses various forms of harmful software, including viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, spyware, adware, and other malicious programs.
Malicious software operates by clandestinely infiltrating and infecting legitimate software or exploiting vulnerabilities in computer systems, often spreading from one system to another. It can be introduced through various means, such as email attachments, file downloads from untrusted sources, malicious websites, or infected removable storage devices.
The primary goals of malicious software are to compromise system security, steal sensitive information, gain unauthorized access to resources or control over the affected device, disrupt system performance, display intrusive advertisements, or extort ransom from users. The harmful actions performed by malware may include capturing keystrokes, logging user activity, modifying or deleting files, encrypting data, establishing unauthorized network connections, or launching cyber attacks on other systems.
Countering malware requires the use of antivirus and anti-malware software, which detect, quarantine, and remove malicious programs from infected devices. Regular software updates, strong passwords, cautious web browsing, and refraining from downloading content from suspicious sources are among the recommended preventative measures to minimize the risk of malware infections.
Overall, malicious software poses a significant threat to individual users, organizations, and society at large, with the potential to cause substantial financial losses, compromise privacy, and disrupt critical services.
