Network threats

2. Malware

Malware is short for 'malicious software'.

Malware is a general term for any hostile or intrusive software. For example it may disrupt computer operations (virus) or it may seek to secretly monitor what the user is doing (spyware).

Malware types include:

• Computer Virus - malicious code intended to disrupt operations
• Trojan - perhaps offers a free game to download but malware is hidden within
• Spyware - monitors keystroke and useage activity and sends it to a remote server
• Adware - inserts unwanted adverts into the browser window
• Pharming - masquerades as a legitimate site - a bank login screen for example
• Click fraud - redirects clicks in order to get click earnings
• Ransomware - encrypts stored data and demands a payment to restore
• Rootkits - loads itself before the operating system to bypass security checks