An umbrella term for any software intentionally designed to cause damage to a computer, server, client, or network. What is Spyware and Malware?

Malicious code disguised as helpful or legitimate software.

Software that encrypts user data and demands a fee for the decryption key.

Programs that display unwanted advertisements and may track user behavior. 3. Key Categories of Spyware Spyware often specializes in the type of data it targets: Spyware and Malware - Federal Trade Commission An umbrella term for any software intentionally designed

Standalone software that replicates itself to spread across networks without human intervention.

This report provides an overview of Malware and its subset, Spyware , outlining their definitions, common types, methods of infection, and defensive strategies according to leading cybersecurity sources like the Federal Trade Commission and CISA . 1. Definitions

Cybersecurity experts from Fortinet and Cisco categorize malware into several primary forms: Programs that display unwanted advertisements and may track

Programs that attach to legitimate files and spread from host to host.