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Malware is malicious software or code that compromises a device or system. It can steal information, disrupt normal use, give someone unauthorized access, spread to other devices, or lock files and demand payment. If you suspect an infection, stop using the device to sign in to sensitive accounts, update trusted security software, and run a scan.
What malware means—and what it does not
“Malware” is a broad term for software or code designed to harm a device, compromise security, or act without the user’s informed consent. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) describes it as harmful software installed without the user’s knowledge; Microsoft’s technical descriptions focus on code that compromises user security. The term covers different behaviors, rather than one single program or infection method. FTC consumer guidance and Microsoft Security’s malware overview explain the scope.
Not every unwanted app is necessarily malware. Microsoft distinguishes potentially unwanted applications from malware: these apps may show unwanted ads or behave in other undesirable ways, without meeting its definition of malware. Microsoft’s guidance on unwanted software describes this distinction.
Common malware types and their risks
Categories can overlap in a real incident: a Trojan, for example, may install spyware or ransomware. It is often more useful to ask what the software does than to assume every threat fits only one label. Microsoft’s descriptions are a vendor taxonomy, not a universal standards list. Microsoft Learn’s classification overview and its malware overview describe representative behaviors.
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| Type | What it does | Typical risk |
|---|---|---|
| Virus, including macro virus | Attaches malicious code to a file or document. A macro virus can run when an infected document is opened. | May damage or alter files, compromise the device, or help spread malicious code. |
| Worm | Spreads to other devices, potentially through messaging, network shares, or removable drives. | Can extend an incident beyond the original device. |
| Trojan | Pretends to be legitimate or harmless software to persuade someone to install it; it does not spread by itself. | May steal information, download more malware, or give an attacker access. |
| Spyware, password stealer, or keylogger | Collects personal information, account credentials, keystrokes, or browsing activity. | Exposes accounts and sensitive information. |
| Ransomware | Encrypts files or otherwise blocks access, then demands payment or another action. | Can make data unavailable; paying does not guarantee recovery. |
| Adware | Displays or downloads unwanted advertising; some forms may also change browser settings. | Disrupts browsing and may create additional exposure. |
| Botnet malware | Makes an infected device part of a remotely controlled network. | The device may be used for criminal activity, such as sending spam or attacking other systems. |
| Fileless threat | Can operate without relying on a conventional downloaded file. | May be harder to identify and remove. |
How malware gets onto a device
Attackers commonly rely on one of several routes:
- Phishing: A deceptive email or message persuades someone to open an attachment, follow a link, or disclose information.
- Malicious downloads or websites: A file or website may deliver harmful software, including when it appears to offer legitimate content.
- Software or system vulnerabilities: Attackers can exploit weaknesses in outdated operating systems, browsers, or apps.
- Removable media: An infected USB drive or other removable device can introduce malware when connected or used.
These routes can lead to stolen usernames, passwords, financial or identity information; unwanted monitoring or control; device disruption; extortion; or misuse of the device to send spam or attack others. The FTC and Microsoft describe these risks in their consumer guidance and malware overview.
Warning signs to watch for
Possible signs include:
- Unexplained slowdowns, freezes, or crashes
- Browser redirects or a homepage that changed unexpectedly
- Unfamiliar toolbars, browser extensions, or add-ons
- Unusual or repeated pop-ups
- Recurring operating-system errors or security tools that have stopped working
- Messages or social posts sent from your accounts that you did not create
These symptoms can have causes other than malware, so they do not prove a device is infected. Conversely, an infection may go undetected for a time, even when security software is installed. The FTC lists these signs and cautions that malware can evade detection in its consumer malware guidance.
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What to do if you suspect an infection
- Stop signing in to sensitive accounts on the suspected device. The FTC advises: “Immediately stop logging into online accounts with your usernames, passwords, or other sensitive information — like shopping or banking.” Use a different device you trust for sensitive account tasks while you address the suspected infection.
- Update trusted security software. If you do not have security software, choose it carefully using independent recommendations and a trusted source. Do not rely on a security alert’s download link or phone number.
- Run a security scan. Follow the security software’s instructions and review its results. On Windows, Microsoft recommends current security intelligence and a full Microsoft Defender Antivirus scan. If unwanted software persists, Microsoft recommends a Defender Offline scan. These Windows-specific steps are not universal instructions for macOS, Android, or iOS. See Microsoft’s Windows protection guidance.
- Change exposed passwords and enable two-factor authentication. Do this from a trusted device, starting with important accounts such as email, banking, and accounts used to reset other passwords. The FTC recommends password changes and two-factor authentication in its malware recovery guidance.
If a scan finds something
Follow the security software’s instructions for removing or quarantining the detection. Quarantine prevents a detected file from running; it is not the same as restoring an affected file. Microsoft’s antivirus FAQ explains quarantine and additional troubleshooting when cleanup is incomplete. Do not allow a file unless you have a sound reason to trust its publisher and safety.
If the problem continues
If malware persists, or important data or accounts are involved, contact the device maker or a trusted support provider. Do not call a number displayed in a pop-up or grant a stranger remote access: fake support warnings commonly use urgency to seek payment or control of a device. The FTC explains this scam risk in its consumer malware guidance.
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How to reduce the risk of malware
- Keep your operating system, browser, apps, and security software’s threat information current.
- Download apps and files only from sources you trust; avoid unexpected links and unfamiliar sites offering free content.
- Use security software to scan files and devices, including removable drives before using them.
- Keep offline backups of important files. Disconnect backup storage when it is not being used for a backup, because connected storage may also be affected by malware.
A portable external drive can hold backup copies, but it is backup storage—not antivirus software or a malware-removal tool. For practical suitability, consider capacity, compatibility with your devices, portability, encryption or password controls, and whether you can keep the drive disconnected between backups. Microsoft recommends offline backups in its malware overview; its antivirus FAQ also covers scanning removable drives and security-software coexistence.
Windows 10 and 11 include Microsoft Defender Antivirus, according to Microsoft’s FAQ; a separate paid antivirus product is not automatically necessary for every reader. Avoid running multiple real-time security products simultaneously unless their compatibility is confirmed, since they can affect performance. Microsoft’s FAQ discusses built-in protection and product coexistence.
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