Security · Website glossary

Malware

Quick answer · What is Malware?

Software intentionally designed to compromise, disrupt, exploit, or otherwise misuse systems or data.

IN PRACTICE

Malware: an example

An unauthorized script redirects visitors from a compromised website.

KEEP IN MIND

An unfamiliar file is not automatically malware; preserve evidence and investigate the behavior with appropriate help.

Put the idea to work

Frequently asked questions

What is a practical example of Malware?

An unauthorized script redirects visitors from a compromised website.

Does an unfamiliar file prove that a website has malware?

An unfamiliar file is not automatically malware; preserve evidence and investigate the behavior with appropriate help.

Which concepts should I read alongside Malware?

Backup: A recoverable copy of data or system state kept to support restoration after loss or unwanted change.
Incident response: A coordinated process for assessing, containing, investigating, and recovering from a suspected security incident.