Malware, a portmanteau of "malicious software," is a pervasive threat in today's digital landscape. From slowing down your computer to stealing sensitive personal information, the consequences of a malware infection can range from mildly annoying to utterly devastating. Understanding what malware is, the different forms it takes, how it spreads, and most importantly, how to protect yourself is crucial in navigating the online world safely. This article provides a comprehensive overview of malware, equipping you with the knowledge to defend against these digital dangers. What is Malware? Malware is any software intentionally designed to cause damage to a computer, server, client, or network. Unlike a glitch or a programming error, malware is deliberately created to perform unwanted, often h...