Bad software includes malware and ransomware. They can damage your computer or steal your data. It is critical to understand the difference between them to protect yourself and your business effectively. This article will help you understand both types of threats.
What is Malware?
Malware is a general term that means “malicious software.” This includes many types of harmful programs. Malware can do different bad things to your computer, such as corrupting files or stealing personal information.
Types of Malware
There are many types of malware. Here are some common ones:
- Viruses: These spread from one computer to another.
- Worms: They can copy themselves without your help.
- Trojans: They trick you into thinking they’re good programs.
- Spyware: This type watches what you do on your computer.
What Malware Does
Malware can cause a lot of problems. It might:
- Slow down your computer
- Delete your files
- Steal your personal info
- Use your computer to attack others
What is Ransomware?
Ransomware is a type of malware. It locks your files or your entire computer. Then it demands money to unlock them. It is a form of digital kidnapping of your data.
How Ransomware Works Ransomware goes by a pretty basic pattern:
- It infects your computer, normally through an e-mail or download.
- It encrypts your files. This means it locks them with a secret code.
- It displays a message. The message requests money to decrypt your files.
- You may be provided with a key to unlock the files if you pay. In other cases, the attackers abscond with your money.
Types of Ransomware
There are primarily two types of ransomware:
- Locker ransomware: This locks the whole computer.
- Crypto ransomware: This only encrypts your files.
How are Malware and Ransomware Different?
Goals
- Malware: Harm your computer, steal data, or use your computer for attacks.
- Ransomware: Lock your files and demand payment.
Methods
- Malware: Works in secret. You might not know it’s there.
- Ransomware: Shows up. It needs to make its presence known on your computer and demand money for its removal.
Effects
- Malware: There are several different effects malware can have on your computer.
- Ransomware: Computer or important files are always locked.
How Does It Get onto Your Computer? Common Entry Points
- Through email attachments
- Via phony websites
- Via a USB drive with an infection
- From using outdated software
How Can You Protect Yourself?
- Keep your software up to date
- Use strong passwords
- Don’t click on strange links or attachments
- Backup your files regularly
Why It Pays to Know the Difference
- Better Prevention. The more you know what you are against, the better your chance at taking the right steps to keep yourself safe.
- Faster Response. If you are under attack, knowing what type of threat it is helps you take quicker action.
We want to keep you secure in the face of all of cyber threats. Contact us if you need more information