Malware, short for malicious softwa

Malware, short for malicious software, is any software used to disrupt computer operation, gather sensitive information, or gain access to private computer systems.[1] It can appear in the form of executable code, scripts, active content, and other software.[2] 'Malware' is a general term used to refer to a variety of forms of hostile or intrusive software.[3] The term badware is sometimes used, and applied to both true (malicious) malware and unintentionally harmful software.[4]