malware

American  

[mal-wair] / ˈmælˌwɛər /

noun

Digital Technology.

1. software intended to damage a computer, mobile device, computer system, or computer network, or to take partial control over its operation.

   tips on finding and removing viruses, spyware, and other malware.

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malware British  

/ ˈmælwɛə /

noun

1. a computer program designed specifically to damage or disrupt a system, such as a virus

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malware Scientific  

/ măl′wâr′ /

1. Software that is written and distributed for malicious purposes, such as impairing or destroying computer systems. Computer viruses are malware.

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Etymology

Origin of malware

First recorded in 1990–95; mal(icious) + -ware

Explanation

Look out! Computer programs that are intended to cause harm or damage your computer are malware. Viruses and spyware are common types of malware. Malware is a code or file that's meant to injure computer users by stealing their data, secretly monitoring their activity, or harming the computer itself. The term malware, which was first used in 1997, is short for "malicious software." If your computer has a firewall or antivirus software, that's your protection against malware. You can also avoid it by not clicking on mysterious links sent from unknown email addresses.

Example Sentences

The price might be right, but if you buy a dirt-cheap gadget, it could come with residential proxy software—preinstalled malware that gives hackers access to your home network.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026

The new Intel Threat Detection Technology, which uses AI to find advanced malware threats in real time, is another unique feature in the market, Altavilla said.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 25, 2026

Unlike some competitors, it does not offer built-in malware or phishing protection.

From Salon • Mar. 21, 2026

But when he downloaded a beta test version of a game called "MetaToy" that turned out to be fake, it installed malware on his browser.

From Barron's • Mar. 13, 2026

Harmless-looking digital images that contain malware are yet another.

From "The Woman All Spies Fear" by Amy Butler Greenfield