A type of malware that disguises itself as a normal file to trick a user into downloading it in order to gain unauthorized access to a computer.

A program that spreads by first infecting files or the system areas of a computer or network router’s hard drive and then making copies of itself. Some viruses are harmless, others may damage data files, and some may destroy files entirely.

A type of malware that opens a permanent “back door” into a computer system. Once installed, a rootkit will allow additional viruses to infect a computer as various hackers find the vulnerable computer exposed and compromise it.

A type of software that downloads or displays unwanted ads when a user is online or redirects search requests to certain advertising websites. The term adware is frequently used to describe a form of malware, which presents unwanted advertisements to the user of a computer. The advertisements produced by adware are sometimes in the form […]

A type of malware that infects a computer and restricts access to it until a ransom is paid by the user to unlock it. Even when a victim pays the ransom amount, the stolen files could remain locked or be deleted by the cybercriminal.

Malware, short for “malicious software,” includes any software (such as a virus, Trojan, or spyware) that is installed on your computer or mobile device. The software is then used, usually covertly, to compromise the integrity of your device. Most commonly, malware is designed to give attackers access to your infected computer. That access may allow […]