What is a malware signature?

A malware signature is a unique string of data that identifies a specific malware program. This signature typically consists of a sequence of bytes or a specific pattern within the code of the malware that can be recognized by antivirus software. When malware signatures are utilized, they allow security systems to scan files and detect known threats quickly and accurately. By comparing files against a database of malware signatures, security software can identify and neutralize threats effectively, preventing further damage to systems.

The definition emphasizes the importance of malware signatures in the context of cybersecurity, illustrating their role in the identification and mitigation of malware attacks. This is crucial because detecting malware is often the first step in protecting data and systems from malicious activities. In contrast, other options refer to different concepts within computing and cybersecurity, which do not accurately describe the specific function of a malware signature.