Malware is an umbrella term for any software intentionally designed to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized access to a computer system. While often used interchangeably with "virus," a virus is actually just one specific type of malware.
Named after the ancient Greek myth, a Trojan disguises itself as legitimate, helpful software to trick users into installing it. Malware, Spyware, Adware Or Trojan
: It cannot self-replicate like a virus. It relies on social engineering, such as being hidden in "free" software downloads, fake updates, or email attachments. Malware is an umbrella term for any software
Spyware is designed to secretly monitor your activity and gather sensitive information without your consent. Types of Malware & Malware Examples - Kaspersky : It cannot self-replicate like a virus
The following breakdown examines the key differences between , Spyware , and Adware , and how they function. 1. Trojan (Trojan Horse)
: Once active, it can create "backdoors" for hackers to access your system, steal data, or even turn your computer into a "zombie" for use in a botnet .