Legal Definitions - malware

Malware is a broad term referring to any software intentionally designed to cause damage, disrupt operations, or gain unauthorized access to a computer system, network, or data. Its primary purpose is malicious, aiming to harm the user, compromise data security, or interfere with normal system functions.

• Example 1: Ransomware Attack on a Small Business

  Imagine a small accounting firm whose employees open what appears to be a legitimate email attachment. Suddenly, all their client financial records and internal databases become encrypted and inaccessible. A message then appears on their screens demanding a payment in cryptocurrency to unlock their files. This software is a form of malware because it was specifically designed to disrupt the firm's operations by locking access to critical data and extorting money, causing significant harm to their business.

• Example 2: Spyware Stealing Personal Information

  Consider an individual who downloads a free game from an unofficial website. Unbeknownst to them, the game also installs a hidden program that secretly monitors their online activity, records their keystrokes when they log into their bank account, and sends this sensitive information to an unknown third party. This hidden program is malware because it was designed to covertly collect personal data without the user's consent, demonstrating a malicious intent to compromise their privacy and financial security.

• Example 3: Malicious Adware Disrupting a User's Experience

  A student downloads a free video converter tool. After installation, their web browser's homepage is forcibly changed, new, unwanted toolbars appear, and every website they visit is constantly interrupted by intrusive pop-up advertisements, making it nearly impossible to browse the internet effectively. This software is malware because it was intentionally designed to alter system settings without permission, disrupt the user's browsing experience, and force unwanted content, thereby causing significant inconvenience and degrading system performance.