malware

/ˈmæl.weə(ɹ)/noun

Computer programs created to do harm or act against the user's wishes.

Example sentences

“Antivirus software detected malware hidden in the email attachment.”
“Never download apps from unknown websites, since they may contain malware.”

A blend of 'malicious' and 'software'. Computer viruses are the best-known kind.

Synonyms for malware

malicious software

Related words

spywareSoftware that secretly watches what someone does on a computer and passes the information on to others.firmwareSoftware stored permanently inside a device that controls its basic hardware functions.virusA tiny germ, much smaller than bacteria, that gets into living cells and causes diseases such as colds and flu.protocolAn agreed set of rules for sending and receiving data, especially between computers on a network.antivirusA program that finds and removes harmful software such as computer viruses.domainThe name of a website that people type into a browser, such as 'example.com'; also called a domain name.