Malware

A generic term for a number of different types of malicious code.

Software that compromises the operation of a system by performing an unauthorized function or proces

Short for malicious software Designed to infiltrate, damage or obtain information from a computer system without the owner’s consent Scope Note: Malware is commonly taken to include computer viruses, worms, Trojan horses, spyware and adware. Spyware is generally used for marketing purposes and, as such, is not malicious, although it is generally unwanted. Spyware can, however, be used to gather information for identity theft or other clearly illicit purposes.

Malicious software used to disrupt the normal operation of an information system in a manner that adversely impacts its confidentiality, availability or integrity.

Software designed to secretly access a computer system without the owner’s informed consent. The expression is a general term (short for malicious software) used to mean a variety of forms of hostile, intrusive, or annoying software or program code. Malware includes computer viruses, worms, Trojan horses, spyware, dishonest adware, ransomware, crimeware, most rootkits, and other malicious and unwanted software or programs.

A virus, worm, Trojan horse, or other code-based malicious entity that successfully infects a host.

Software that compromises the operation of a system by performing an unauthorized function or process.

Hardware, firmware, or software that is intentionally included or inserted in a system for a harmful purpose.