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Malware Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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malware

[ˈmæl.wɛər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

computer security

Malware, short for malicious software, is any software intentionally designed to cause damage to a computer, server, client, or computer network. It includes viruses, worms, trojan horses, ransomware, spyware, adware, and other malicious programs.

Synonyms

computer virus, cyber threat, malicious software, malware program.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
malware

Use this term when referring to any kind of harmful software, which includes different types such as viruses, spyware, and ransomware. It is a general, umbrella term.

  • Make sure your antivirus software is up to date to protect against malware.
  • She discovered that her computer was infected with malware.
malicious software

This term, similar to malware, is used for any harmful software but often emphasizes the intentional harm aspect of the software. It is slightly more formal.

  • Her computer was infected with malicious software designed to steal personal information.
  • Security experts are always looking for new ways to detect malicious software.
computer virus

Utilize this term specifically when discussing a type of malware that attaches itself to a program or file and spreads to other devices. It mimics biological viruses in its method of spreading.

  • The IT department is working to remove the computer virus that has infected several systems.
  • A computer virus corrupted all of her important data.
cyber threat

Refer to this term when talking about the potential of a cyber attack, which may not have happened yet. It encompasses a range of potential harm including malware, hacking, and other cybersecurity risks.

  • Many organizations are investing in cybersecurity measures to combat cyber threats.
  • The government has issued a warning about an imminent cyber threat to personal data.
malware program

Use this term when you want to be specific about a program rather than files or scripts that are malicious. It often highlights the software aspect more clearly.

  • The team identified a malware program that was logging users' keystrokes.
  • He mistakenly downloaded a malware program disguised as a legitimate update.

Examples of usage

  • Make sure you have a good antivirus program to protect your computer from malware.
  • The company's network was infected with malware after an employee clicked on a suspicious link.
  • Malware can steal sensitive information from your device without your knowledge.
  • Regularly update your software to prevent malware attacks.
  • Be cautious when downloading files from unknown sources to avoid malware infections.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History

  • The first known malware, called the 'Creeper' virus, was created in 1971 and moved between computers on a network, displaying the message 'I'm the creeper, catch me if you can!'
  • In the late 1980s, the 'Brain' virus spread through floppy disks and is considered one of the first significant computer viruses that infected PCs.

Science and Technology

  • Malware can come in various forms, like viruses, worms, trojans, and spyware, each having unique methods of infection and damage.
  • As technology grows, so does malware sophistication. Modern pieces can use artificial intelligence to adapt to security defenses.

Pop Culture

  • Movies like 'Hackers' and 'WarGames' often explore themes of malware and cyber warfare, influencing public perception of computer security.
  • 'Mr. Robot,' a television show, dives deep into hacking culture and includes various malware references, highlighting its impact on society.

Psychology

  • The fear of malware reflects deeper anxieties about privacy and security in today's digital age, showing how technology intersects with personal safety.
  • Malware's impact leads to paranoia among users, prompting behavioral changes like increased encryption and the use of virtual private networks to protect information.

Origin of 'malware'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'malware' is a blend of 'malicious' and 'software,' first used in the late 1980s as computers became more popular.
  • Other terms like 'virus' and 'worm' are specific types of malware that behave in different ways.

The term 'malware' originated in the early 1990s as a combination of 'malicious' and 'software'. It was used to describe any type of software designed to harm or exploit computer systems. With the rise of internet usage, malware has become a significant threat to cybersecurity, leading to the development of various antivirus and anti-malware programs to protect against these malicious attacks.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,957, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.