What are the common types of malware?

Malware can take different forms, each with its own goals and methods of propagation.

Here are some of the most common types of malware:

• Viruses: A program that can spread by infecting other files or programs on a system.
• Worms: Self-contained programs that can spread from one computer to another over computer networks.
• Trojans: Programs that pose as legitimate software to trick users into downloading them, allowing cybercriminals to gain access to systems.
• Spyware: Programs designed to monitor and collect information about a user's activities without their knowledge.
• Ransomware: Malicious software that encrypts a user's files and demands payment of a ransom to unlock them.
• Adware: Programs designed to display intrusive, unwanted advertising on users' computers.

Updated on: 17/07/2026