Therefore, we believe that "Anti-Malware" is a more appropriate term, even though it is the same thing as what is commonly known as "Anti-Virus".
Attackers get onto your computer through unpatched software and encrypt all your files. Can you afford to pay a $1,000 ransom to get your data back?
They turn your computer into a remote-controlled zombie. Your computing power is collectively sold on the black market to send spam, attack others, or host illegal content.
Hackers use phishing techniques and keyloggers to obtain your most valuable passwords and invisibly empty your bank or PayPal accounts in a matter of seconds.
Potentially unwanted programs that clutter your computer with useless browser toolbars, tons of ads, and other crap that slows down your computer.