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Haittaohjelmilla, known in English as malware, refers to any software intentionally designed to cause damage to a computer, server, client, or computer network. The term "malware" is a contraction of "malicious software." This encompasses a wide range of harmful programs, including viruses, worms, Trojans, ransomware, spyware, adware, and scareware.

Malware can be introduced to a system through various means. Common infection vectors include email attachments, malicious websites, infected software downloads, and compromised USB drives. Once installed, malware can perform a multitude of malicious actions. These can range from stealing sensitive information such as passwords and financial data, to disrupting system operations, encrypting files for ransom, displaying unwanted advertisements, or even taking complete control of the infected device.

The primary goals of malware authors vary. Some seek financial gain through ransomware or by stealing banking credentials. Others aim to cause disruption, espionage, or to use infected machines as part of a botnet for further attacks. Protecting against malware involves several layers of defense. These include using reputable antivirus and anti-malware software, keeping operating systems and applications updated, practicing safe browsing habits, and being cautious about opening email attachments or downloading files from unknown sources. Regular backups of important data are also crucial to mitigate the impact of malware infections, particularly ransomware.