Cybersecurity Glossary
Malware
Any software written to do harm, from ransomware and spyware to banking trojans and cryptominers.
What Malware means
Malware is the umbrella term. What it does once installed varies: encrypt files, steal credentials, log keystrokes, mine cryptocurrency, or quietly open a door for a later attack. Delivery is usually an email attachment, a compromised website, a pirated application or an infected removable drive.
Why Malware matters for small businesses and nonprofits
Small organisations often assume they are too small to be targeted. Most malware is not targeted at all; it is sprayed broadly and infects whoever is unpatched. The lack of a dedicated security team is precisely what makes a small organisation easier to infect and slower to notice.
What to do about Malware
- Keep operating systems, browsers and plugins patched on a schedule
- Use endpoint protection that detects behaviour, not just known file signatures
- Remove local administrator rights from everyday user accounts
Not sure where you stand on this?
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