CyberGuard dictionary / Malware
Malware
Software or firmware intended to perform unauthorized actions that harm a system or its data.
In simple terms
Malware is malicious code that can steal, damage, or disrupt information and devices.
Technical explanation
Malware spans multiple behaviors, including ransomware, spyware, worms, and remote-control tools; a label alone does not describe every capability.
Delivery and behavior are separate questions: a malicious program may arrive through email, a compromised website, or a software package, then steal data, persist, or spread. Analysis of observed behavior guides containment.
Examples in practice
A malicious attachment installs code that copies browser passwords to an attacker.
After opening the attachment, the laptop starts an unfamiliar process and contacts an unusual domain. Responders isolate it, preserve relevant evidence, and check whether other devices received the same file.
Why it matters
Recognizing malware as a broad category helps choose layered defenses.
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Sources and further reading
Published 2026-10-15 · Last updated 2026-10-15 · CyberGuard editorial content. Source links provide context; they do not imply endorsement.