Malware and ransomware are both types of malicious software that can harm your computer or steal your personal information. Downloading such harmful software can lead to severe consequences. In 2024, there were more than 60 million new strains of malware found on the internet.
That’s why it’s essential to know the difference between them. This article will guide you in understanding both types of threats.
What is Malware?
Malware is a general term that means “malicious software.” It encompasses various types of malicious programs. Depending on its kind, malware can cause different types of damage to your computer. Here are the four primary types of malware:
- 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.
Malware can lead to numerous issues. If your device gets infected, it can:
- 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 that locks your files or even your entire computer, then demands payment to unlock them. It’s essentially a form of digital extortion for your data.
Ransomware follows a fairly simple 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.
In 2024, the average ransom reached $2.73 million, nearly a $1 million rise from the previous year, according to Sophos. There are mainly two types of ransomware:
- Locker ransomware: This locks the whole computer.
- Crypto ransomware: This only encrypts your files.
How are Malware and Ransomware Different?
The key difference between malware and ransomware lies in their objectives. Malware aims to cause damage or steal information, while ransomware seeks to extort money from you directly.
While malware aims to steal your data, ransomware locks your files and demands payment to release them. Their methods also differ: malware operates secretly, often without you realizing it’s there, whereas ransomware makes itself known in order to demand money from you.
How Does It Get Onto Your Computer?
Malware and ransomware can both infect your computer through similar methods.
These include:
- Through email attachments
- Via phony websites
- Via a USB drive with an infection
- From using outdated software
These are the most common methods, though new techniques are emerging. Fileless malware was expected to grow 65% in 2024, and AI-assisted malware may make up 20% of strains in 2025. If your device becomes infected with malware or ransomware, it’s crucial to act fast. Recognizing these signs of infection can help you protect yourself.
For malware:
- Your computer is slow
- Strange pop-ups appear
- Programs crash often
For ransomware:
- You can’t open your files
- You see a ransom note on your screen
- Your desktop background changes to a warning
How Can You Protect Yourself?
There are steps you can take to protect yourself from both malware and ransomware. First, here are some general safety tips for avoiding both:
- Keep your software up to date
- Use strong passwords
- Don’t click on strange links or attachments
- Backup your files regularly
To protect yourself from malware, use antivirus software and be cautious about what you download. To guard against ransomware, make offline backups of your files and use tools specifically designed to prevent ransomware attacks.
What to Do If You’re Attacked
If you think your device may be infected with malware or ransomware, take immediate action.
For Malware:
- Go offline
- Run full anti-virus
- Delete infected files
- Change all your passwords
For Ransomware:
- Go offline
- Don’t pay the ransom (it may not work)
- Report the attack to the police
- Restore your files from a backup
Why It Pays to Know the Difference
Understanding the difference between malware and ransomware can improve your protection. It enables you to respond effectively when attacked. The more you know about the threat, the better equipped you’ll be to take the right steps to stay safe. If you’re under attack, identifying the type of threat allows you to act quickly, take the right actions, and safeguard your data.
Stay Safe in the Digital World
The digital world can be risky, but you can stay safe with caution. Remember the differences between malware and ransomware, and make good security habits a part of your daily routine.
Article used with permission from The Technology Press.