What Is Malware?

Malware is short for “malicious software.” This software has one purpose: to disrupt computer systems like mobile devices. For example, malware may cause damage to a server or grant unauthorised access to information. Malware attacks are the most common form of cyberattack among businesses and organisations.

In 2023, groups initiated over 6.06 billion malware attacks globally [1]. Of these attacks, ransomware spread through email attachments is of particular concern because of its impact on critical industries and threat to healthcare, government, and manufacturing. As new types of malware appear, demand for professionals to protect organisations also increases.

Malware vs virus: What's the difference?

Malware is an umbrella term used to describe many different types of malicious software. A virus is a subtype of malware infection. They earned their name from how they self-replicate and spread throughout a device after infecting just one file or program. All viruses are malware, but not all malware are viruses. 

Common types of malware

Understanding common malware threats is an important first step toward protecting your devices and data from cyberattacks. The list below outlines a few common types of malware, providing you with essential knowledge to enhance your cybersecurity measures.

• Adware: Adware is unwanted software designed to display or download advertising materials on your computer. 

• Trojans: Also known as trojan horses, Trojans are malicious code or programs that disguise themselves as legitimate software to trick users into downloading it. 

• Spyware: Spyware is software that uninstalls itself on your computer. It monitors your online behaviour and gathers information about you to forward to a third party. 

• Ransomware: Ransomware attacks use encryption to block access to an infected device or file until the owner pays money. Malware developers sometimes leave a ransom note threatening to publish private information. 

• Worms: A worm is a malicious program replicating itself to spread throughout a network. Unlike viruses, this malware can spread to other computers within a network by exploiting security vulnerabilities. 

Learn how to protect against malware and other cyber threats

Malware, short for "malicious software," can disrupt computer systems, cause damage, or grant unauthorised access to information. As new types of malware emerge, the need for cybersecurity professionals to protect organisations increases, highlighting the ongoing threat and evolving nature of cyberattacks.

Start working toward a career in cybersecurity and consider the Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate on Coursera. Designed ​​to help individuals with no previous experience find their first job in the field of cybersecurity, all at their own pace, this programme's courses cover topics such as security models, tools used to access and address threats, networks, and more.