What is malware?

Malware is an umbrella term for any form of “malicious software,” including viruses, spyware, and ransomware. There are also a number of ways to get infected with malware, like phishing emails, Trojans, and hacking attempts. Either way, once malware is on your device, it might steal your identity, install unwanted programs, or hold your files for ransom.

Trojan horses are malicious software Trojans Computer Viruses are malicious software Viruses Spyware are malicious software Spyware Worms are malicious software Worms Document overlapped by a lock with a dollar sign in the center Ransomware

How does Malwarebytes Premium protect me against cyberthreats? Stops malware, adware, and other online threats with multiple layers of security, including real-time protection

Warns you when you accidentally visit malicious or fraudulent websites that contain threats like phishing scams, tech support scams, and malicious advertising

Identifies and removes existing infections with a quick, comprehensive scan of your device

Will using Malwarebytes slow down my device? Malwarebytes keeps your device running fast, without the hassle

Runs in the background 24/7 with minimal impact on performance so you can stay safe without slowing down your computer or fiddling with your security software

Uses simple controls that make it easy to customize your security

Improves performance by removing potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) that make your computer run poorly and disrupt your online experience

How is Malwarebytes different from traditional antivirus software? Malwarebytes does what traditional PC and Mac antivirus programs can't, like detect emerging threats

Uses artificial intelligence to identify emerging threats so you're safe from threats the moment they come out

Protects you from advanced ransomware infections that encrypt your files and force you to pay to get them back

Removes all traces of malware on your device so you can be sure your device is clean

How do I know if I'm infected with malware? Look for issues characteristics of a malware infection: Does your web browser freeze or become unresponsive?

Do you get redirected to web pages other than the ones you are trying to visit?

Are you bombarded with pop-up messages?

Does your computer run slower than usual?

Do you see new icons on your desktop that you don't recognize?