By Devonte Longmire
What is it?
Malware is a concept and a type of harmful software created to damage, disrupt, or gain unauthorized access to computers, phones, or networks.
Tech Understandability: Beginner
Simple One-Sentence Definition
Malware is bad software that sneaks onto your device to spy on you, break things, or steal your information.
Analogy or Comparison that makes the concept relatable
Think of malware like termites in a house—you don’t always see them, but they can quietly eat away at your system until it breaks.
Why it matters?
Malware can come from clicking suspicious links, downloading fake apps, or visiting infected websites. Once it’s on your device, it can slow things down, spy on what you do, steal your passwords, or even lock your files and demand money to get them back. Many people don’t realize they’ve been infected until it’s too late. Knowing how to avoid malware—like not clicking strange links or installing unknown programs—can help protect your digital life.
Fun Fact
Some malware can secretly turn your computer into part of a “botnet,” a large group of infected machines controlled by hackers, without you ever knowing.
Related Terms
Virus – A type of malware that spreads by attaching itself to clean files.
Spyware – Malware that secretly watches what you do and collects personal information.
Ransomware – Malware that locks your files and asks for money to unlock them.
Trojan Horse – Malware that pretends to be useful software but actually causes harm.
Antivirus – Software that helps detect and remove malware from your device.
Printout
Tech Teacher 
Leave a comment