Malware is a type of malicious software designed to disrupt a victim's computer, server, or network. It is a catch-all term for software like viruses, trojan horses, ransomware, spyware, worms, and more.
Types of Malware
Viruses: A virus is malware that attaches to another program and, when executed—usually inadvertently by the user—replicates itself by modifying other computer programs and infecting them with its own bits of code. A virus cannot execute or reproduce unless the app it has infected is running.
Trojans: A Trojan, or Trojan horse, is malware that represents itself as something useful in order to trick users into installing it. Once installed, it gives attackers unauthorized access to the affected computer. Unlike viruses, Trojans do not self-replicate; they rely entirely on social engineering for distribution.
Ransomware: A type of malware that encrypts a victim's files or locks their system and demands payment for restoration.
Spyware: Malware that collects information about users' activities without their knowledge or consent. This can include passwords, PINs, payment information, and unstructured messages.
Worms: Malware similar to viruses but capable of spreading across systems on their own, without requiring user action, by exploiting network vulnerabilities.
Keyloggers: Malware that captures keyboard input to steal sensitive information such as passwords and credit card numbers.
Botnets: Networks of compromised devices controlled by attackers to launch cyberattacks, spread malware, or steal information.
Scareware: A social engineering attack that uses fake security alerts to manipulate users into downloading malware or paying for fraudulent software solutions.
Wiper Malware: Destroys data on the infected system without offering recovery options, often used for sabotage rather than financial gain.
How Malware Is Delivered
Malware is commonly delivered through phishing emails containing malicious attachments or links, malicious websites, drive-by downloads, infected software, and removable media. Email remains one of the most common delivery vectors for malware attacks.
Prevention
Organizations can reduce the risk of malware infection by deploying advanced email security solutions, maintaining up-to-date endpoint protection, patching software vulnerabilities promptly, and training employees to recognize and avoid suspicious emails and links. Pangratis detects and blocks malware delivered via email by analyzing the content, behavior, and intent of every message.