More than one billion active malware programs exist worldwide. Is your organization prepared to prevent these 12 types of malware attacks?

Malware is one of the biggest security threats enterprises face. An estimated 6.5 billion infections will plague enterprises in 2025, according to penetration services firm DeepStrike -- up from the approximately 6.2 billion infections that struck in 2024.

When it comes to malware, prevention is key. To properly prevent an attack, it is critical to first understand what malware is and its most common types.

The word malware is a portmanteau of malicious software. It is any program designed to intentionally harm and infect devices and networks. Attackers use malware to steal data, credentials, identities and resources; to disrupt networks and services; and for revenge, hacktivism and financial gain.

The umbrella term malware encompasses the following subcategories:

1. Viruses.
2. Worms.
3. Ransomware.
4. Bots.
5. Trojan horses.
6. Keyloggers.
7. Rootkits.
8. Spyware.
9. Fileless malware.
10. Cryptojacking.
11. Wiperware.
12. Adware.

Let's explore each type of malware in further detail.