Malware, short for malicious software, is a program that is intentionally designed to harm computer systems and devices. In 2022, 5.5 billion malware attacks occurred around the world. Cybercriminals often use malware to cause damage to a system, take control of your device, spy on your web activity or steal personal data for financial gain. Individuals are targeted with malware through methods such as phishing, smishing and vishing which are types of social engineering.