What is malware? Definition, types, and removal

Malware, short for “malicious software,” is a computer program designed to cause harm. It can be as annoying as pop-up ads or as dangerous as ransomware that locks you out of your own files. Viruses, spyware, and other nasty threats can sneak into computers, phones, and even entire networks, leading to stolen data, financial fraud, or major disruptions. Cybercriminals are constantly finding new ways to infiltrate computer systems, so understanding malware — what it is, how it spreads, and how to defend against it — is necessary to stay safer online. In this article, we’ll break it all down and share tips on how to protect yourself better.