Malware is a catch-all term for various malicious software, including viruses, adware, spyware, browser hijacking software, and fake security software.
Once installed on your computer, these programs can seriously affect your privacy and your computer's security. For example, malware is known for relaying personal information to advertisers and other third parties without user consent. Some programs are also known for containing worms and viruses that cause a great deal of computer damage.
Viruses which are the most commonly-known form of malware and potentially the most destructive. They can do anything from erasing the data on your computer to hijacking your computer to attack other systems, send spam, or host and share illegal content.
Spyware is classified as a type of malware — malicious software designed to gain access to or damage your computer, often without your knowledge. Spyware gathers your personal information and relays it to advertisers, data firms, or external users. Spyware is used for many purposes.
Adware is often harmless, but sometimes the adware you inadvertently download can also be malware. Malware is software designed to disrupt the use of your computer in some way. ... Malware can sometimes seek out personal information stored on your computer s hard drive and use it to steal your identity.
Fake security software poses as legitimate software to trick you into opening your system to further infection, providing personal information, or paying for unnecessary or even damaging "clean ups".
Browser hijacking software changes your browser settings (such as your home page and toolbars), displays pop-up ads and creates new desktop shortcuts. It can also relay your personal preferences to interested third parties.
Sometimes a slow PC is just that ... A slow PC ... And yet other times this can be caused by Malware but sometimes it's not Malware there are many other issues that can cause your PC to be slow too ... Not enough memory, hardware conflicts, improperly installed software, incomplete removal of software, your OS is demanding too much from your hardware and so many other possible issues. We can help you identify and clean up issues to help you get the most from your computer, the issues slowing your computer may be easily resolved or we can advise you if it's time to upgrade to a newer computer and we can guide you with upgrade options tailored to your specific needs.