Malware, or malicious software, is any program or file intentionally harmful to a computer or device such as a mobile phone. Types of malware can include computer viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, and spyware. These malicious programs steal, encrypt, and delete sensitive data, alter or hijack core computer functions, and monitor the activities of those using such devices. All types of malware are designed to exploit devices at the user's expense and for the benefit of the attacker or the entity that has developed and/or implemented the malware.

You can detect malware on your devices by looking for signs of unusual activity, such as sudden loss of disk space, prolonged speeds, crashes (or repeated crashes), increased unwanted internet activity, and a higher number of pop-up ads.

Installing antivirus and antimalware software on your device is recommended, which you should keep active and updated to detect and remove malware. It's also important not to install suspicious updates and programs that could be downloaded from unreliable sites or sources and to avoid opening and running unsolicited email attachments.