An effective anti-malware software removes all viruses and malware, but it’s worth remembering that these two things are different.
Viruses are a type of malware triggered by the host and infect your system by replicating themselves. Malware, however, is an umbrella term that covers all malicious software designed to harm a system or a network.
There are various kinds of malware, such as:
Ransomware — Encrypts your files until you pay the attackers a ransom.
Spyware — Lets third parties spy on you by monitoring your screen, keystrokes, camera, and microphone.
Adware — Usually infects browsers, collects your browsing data, and spams you with ads.
Trojan — Seemingly safe files are often packaged with legitimate software that lay dormant until they’re activated and begin harming your system or giving attackers remote access.
Keylogger — Lets hackers log all your keystrokes to learn sensitive details like login credentials and banking information.
Worm — Keeps duplicating itself to spread across a system or a network quickly.