malware

/ˈmæl.weə(ɹ)/noun

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

Example sentence

“Antivirus software detected malware hidden in the email attachment.”

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

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.virusAn illness caused by an infectious viral agent.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.domainAn area of activity, knowledge, or influence that belongs to a person or group.