Though the term malware covers all types of malicious software designed to corrupt, damage or steal data, there are a number of different types of malware. Viruses, worms and Trojans are some of the more commonly known, however there are still others that can infect a computer and wreak havoc on software. While spyware removal software typically scans for all of these infections, it can be helpful for PC users to have a general knowledge of their symptoms and effects. Below are three additional types of malware, alongside viruses, worms and Trojans.

Bots or botnets

The term bot is a shortened version of the word "robot," and it is used to describe any type of automatic program that interacts with a computer network. Some bots are harmless, but others can allow one central computer to obtain remote control over a number of other computers, essentially forming a network of "zombie" bots. Botnets can then be used to launch broad attacks against targets. Notably, botnets have been recently used to flood major financial and political websites with data requests, causing them to crash. They can also be used to gather passwords and issue spam.

Spyware and Adware

Spyware and adware are both fairly common, and it's possible to fall victim to both by downloading free software or even visiting certain websites. Spyware tracks a user's computer habits without his or her knowledge, usually gathering online shopping habits and sending that data to a company for advertising purposes. At the same time, that spyware can gather personal information, posing security and identity theft risks. Adware inundates a user with advertisements, typically by showing pop-ups or redirecting a browser to a different website.

Rootkits

Rootkits hide within a user's computer, and they can be used to allow someone to access a user's computer remotely. They can also disguise viruses or other malware, and because they are so difficult to find, it may be necessary to combine a number of different methods in detecting them. A Washington, D.C. spyware removal professional may be needed to handle a rootkit.