Jurisdiction(s):
United Kingdom

Key definition

Malware definition

What does Malware mean? In legal practice, malware describes malicious software or code deployed to obtain unauthorised access, impair the operation of computers or networks, encrypt or destroy data, surveil users, exfiltrate information or take control of systems, typically without the owner’s knowledge or consent. The term is descriptive rather than statutory, but the underlying conduct is criminalised: in England & Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland under the Computer Misuse Act 1990 (including unauthorised acts intending to impair, or being reckless as to impairment (s3), causing serious damage (s3ZA), and making, supplying or obtaining “articles” for such offences (s3A)); and in Ireland under...

A–Z of Cyber Threats: A Quick Guide to Risks and Defences for Law Firms and Commercial Organisations

Published by a LexisNexis Practice Compliance expert

Practice notes

Practice Note: quick guide to key cyber threats and defences

This Practice Note provides a concise overview of the main cyber threats facing commercial organisations and highlights top tips to help them protect themselves. It should be read alongside Practice Notes: Cybercrime prevention and Cybercrime incident management, and the Cybersecurity subtopic generally.

Advanced persistent threat (APT)

What is it?

Attackers obtain unauthorised access to a system and stay hidden for a lengthy period. They may transfer sensitive information without permission, and even after discovery can leave several backdoors to return later.

Best defence/top tips

Raise user awareness of the risk and basic account security—see Precedent: Cybercrime awareness campaign.
Deploy firewalls to examine and filter traffic.
Use antivirus software.
Keep protective software updated frequently to match the latest techniques used by cyber criminals.

Botnet

What is it?

A collection of infected computers remotely controlled by a hacker. Access to these machines can be shared or sold to other cyber criminals to send spam or overwhelm a system. See malware and hacking.

Chain letter

What is it?

An email that urges the recipient to forward copies to others...

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Web page updated on 21/05/2026

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