What's malware?
Malware is a generic name that has been given to anything that isn't a virus.
Probably the worst form of malware are phishing emails and websites. Phishing (fishing) is a term used by rogue emails and websites that attempt to gather sufficient information about you in order to steal your identity.
The whole subject of malware is too complex to discuss here but if you use a good Anti-Virus Detector, a good Spy Sweeper (Webroot without the anti-virus) an email filter (see Spam, spam, spam) and some common sense you should stay safe.
Make sure the phishing filter is turned on in Internet Explorer, better still use Firefox instead.
Don't open emails from people you don't recognise but don't assume emails come from the people thay claim to be from. If in doubt contact the sender by telephone. Don't click on links in emails. The site may look like the one you expected but it could be false. Banks, Building Societies, eBay and PayPal don't send you emails asking you to confirm anything!
You can read more about this topic and others on our blog.