Malware (MALicious softWARE) is software designed to make a system do what an attacker wants. Specifically, Malware interferes with, damages or otherwise disrupts a system. Although Malware is sometimes used as a general term to describe "bad" software of all levels of severity, the term most accurately describes the most malicious forms of Spyware. Malware includes all software used for online theft, fraud or espionage. Malware is increasing in frequency and virulence because many of the factors fueling the evolution of the computer industry are making systems more vulnerable to malicious code. Malware creators benefit from the trends of mixing data with executable instructions; an increasingly homogeneous computing environment; unprecedented connectivity; and a large and growing user base with limited technical skills. For Malware creators, the potential for financial reward is limitless. |