Cybersecurity Research Project

What Is Malware?

Malware is short for malicious software. It is software created to harm devices, spy on users, steal data, or gain unauthorized access to systems. Malware can spread through infected downloads, unsafe email attachments, fake websites, and removable drives.

Illustration representing malware threats

Common Types of Malware

Virus: attaches itself to a file and spreads when the file is opened.
Worm: spreads automatically across networks without user action.
Trojan horse: appears safe but hides harmful code.
Ransomware: locks files or systems and demands payment.
Spyware: secretly collects information about the user.

Why Malware Is Dangerous

Malware can delete files, monitor activity, steal passwords, slow down systems, and even shut down business operations. In severe cases, ransomware attacks stop hospitals, schools, and companies from using their own networks until a solution is found.

Malware Type	Primary Effect	Example Risk
Virus	File infection	Corrupted documents
Ransomware	Locks systems	Business downtime
Spyware	Secret monitoring	Stolen login data