Some malware is a mix, like a two-in-one shampoo and conditioner. They might enter your computer pretending to be something else (like a Trojan) and then start spreading on their own (like a worm).

Ransomware locks up your files, like a kidnapper holding something precious hostage, and asks for money to release them. It's a big problem for not just individuals but whole cities or companies!

Imagine someone following you around, watching what you do and where you go, or someone constantly trying to sell you things you don't want. That's what spyware and adware do; they track your computer activity or annoy you with unwanted ads.

Think of a virus like a cold. If someone has a cold and sneezes (shares files), you might catch it (get the virus). A computer virus attaches itself to real programs and when you run those programs, the virus spreads, just like a cold spreading from person to person.

Worms are like viruses but don't need a person to spread; they can move on their own. Imagine a worm that can go from house to house without needing an invitation. A long time ago, there was a worm called ILOVEYOU that spread through emails, messing up files and sending itself to everyone in your email contacts.

Trojans are like wolves in sheep's clothing. They pretend to be helpful software, but once you let them in, they reveal their true nature and let hackers into your computer. Imagine someone knocking on your door, saying they're delivering pizza you didn't order. If you let them in, they could cause trouble.