malware
MAL-wair
/ˈmælwer/
Software that is specifically designed to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized access to a computer system.
The broadest term for any bad code, including viruses, worms, and spyware.
The story behind the word. A blend of 'malicious' and 'software.' The term was first used by computer scientist Yisrael Radai in 1990 to provide a single word for the growing variety of harmful programs being created.
Word relationships
- malicious software: The full, non-shortened version of the word.
- benign software: Software that is harmless or helpful.
Commonly confused with
- virus: A virus is a specific type of malware that replicates; malware is the general category.
Collocations
- malware infection
- detect malware
- malware removal
Example sentences
- "Installing a reputable antivirus program can help protect your computer from various types of malware." A computer safety tip.
- "The malware was disguised as a legitimate software update to trick users into installing it." A technical report on a cyber attack.
Memory hook
MAL = Bad. Malware is Bad Software. Bad code.
When not to use
Don't use it for buggy software that is bad by accident; malware must have malicious intent.
Fun facts
- The first PC virus, 'Brain,' was created in 1986 not to steal data, but to track software piracy.
Related words
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