Unfortunately, just like humans, computers can get sick. Malware is like the flu but for computers—whether that be your laptop, phone, or any other smart device.

Malware can take many different forms from being a silent, sabotaging ninja to being a tank—mowing down everything in its path. However, thankfully, with some knowledge and preventive “medicine,” you can help safeguard your computer from malware attacks.

Malware (Malicious Software) Definition

First, what is Malware? At its base, it is a malicious program or code aimed at harming your computer in some way.

Malware is designed to break into your computer and damage, disable, steal, or just troll the user. Just like how the flu disrupts normal human functions, malware will disrupt your computer’s normal functions.

Unlike the flu, malware has an agenda behind it such as ransoming your data, stealing sensitive information, keeping you from getting any work done, and more. Whatever it is, one thing remains true—it’s bad.

How to Know if Your Computer Is Infected by Malware

Sometimes it can be hard to know if your computer is just getting old, or if it is infected by malware. However, there are eight signs that you can look for:

1. Computer Crashes or Freezes—This is a sign that something is wrong with your computer and the culprit could very well be malware.
2. Loss of Disk Space—If you find that your disk space is suddenly being used up, it could be because a malware program has just installed itself into your device.
3. Computer Slows Down—Malware feeds off of your computer and needs its power to operate. If your computer is a lot slower than usual, malware could be the cause.
4. Antivirus Software Shuts Down—If your antivirus software stops working or was turned off without your input, malware is a likely culprit.
5. Browser Settings Change—If your browser settings changed or new plugins/extensions appeared, you may have unintentionally downloaded malware.
6. Access to Files Has Been Taken Away—Ransomware typically locks you out of your data or device and demands payment in return for access.
7. Spike in Internet Activity—Malware often downloads additional components in the background, consuming your bandwidth and slowing your connection.
8. Pop-up Ads Take Over Your Screen—A spike in pop-ups, especially outside the browser, may indicate adware infection.

How Does Your Computer Get Malware?

Unless someone physically installs malware via a USB drive, most infections come through the internet. Malicious emails, fake ads, compromised websites, and drive-by downloads are all common vectors. Even legitimate sites can be temporarily infected or display malicious ads without the site owner knowing.

On phones, infected apps and text messages with suspicious links are two of the most common entry points.

Types of Malware

There are many different types of malware, but the 10 most common are:

1. Ransomware—Locks you out of your files or device and demands payment to restore access.
2. Malicious Cryptomining—Uses your computer’s processing power to mine cryptocurrency for the attacker.
3. Trojan—Disguises itself as legitimate software to sneak onto your device, then steals data or opens a backdoor.
4. Virus—Attaches to a program and replicates itself, infecting other files and programs.
5. Adware—Floods your browser with ads, often as a precursor to more damaging malware.
6. Spyware—Monitors your activity silently and sends data back to its creator.
7. Worms—Similar to viruses but can spread across systems on their own without any user action.
8. Keylogger—Records keystrokes to capture passwords, credit card numbers, and other sensitive data.
9. Exploits—Targets system vulnerabilities to gain access or install additional malware.
10. Rootkit—Embeds itself deep in your operating system and gives the attacker full control.

How to Remove Malware

The best approach is to go on the offensive. Download a reputable anti-malware program, run a full system scan, and follow the prompts to remove anything flagged. Once clean, change all your passwords—even after removal, malware may have already sent your credentials to its creator.

How to Protect Against Malware

• Use strong, unique passwords for every account
• Avoid sites with excessive pop-ups or multiple suspicious download buttons
• Don’t open email attachments from unknown senders
• Avoid clicking on pop-up ads
• Keep your operating system and browser up to date
• Back up your data regularly
• Only download apps from official, trusted sources
• Run a reputable cybersecurity program that scans and blocks threats automatically

What are the final thoughts on malware?

Malware is a very real and common threat that often operates in the background where it’s hard to spot. Knowing the signs and keeping good habits goes a long way — but when things get serious, professional removal is the safest option.