Malware is hostile, intrusive or annoying software designed to infiltrate or damage a computer system without the owner’s informed consent. Malware can be targeted to specific users or spread unknowingly from device to device. It’s an umbrella term that includes malicious, unwanted software like viruses, worms, Trojan horses, most rootkits, spyware and dishonest adware.
FAQs about Malware
What’s malware?
How can malware affect my computer or device?
Malware infections can:
- Slow or impair your device’s normal operation.
- Allow your device to be remotely used be others
- Disrupt your access to the internet.
- In certain situations, allow hackers to steal your credentials like passwords and other sensitive information like banking and credit card information.
What do I do if my computer or device is infected by malware?
Here are ways you can treat and avoid malware infections:
- Perform a thorough virus and malware scan on your device using downloadable applications like the Microsoft Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool.
- If you have anti-virus and -malware software installed, make sure you’re always updated with the latest version.
- If you’ve completed the above but your device is still acting strangely, bring it to a third-party computer repair technician to solve the problem.