Malware and ransomware are two types of harmful software that can damage your computer or steal your data. Downloading this malicious software can lead to serious consequences. In 2024, more than 60 million new strains of malware were discovered on the internet.
It is crucial to understand the difference between these two threats. This article will help you learn about both types of software and the risks they pose.
What is Malware?
Malware is a general term that means “malicious software.” It includes many types of harmful programs. Depending on the type, malware can do different bad things to your computer. These are the four main 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 cause a lot of problems. If you get malware on your device, 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. 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.
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.
As of 2024, the average ransom was $2.73 million. This is almost a $1 million increase from the previous year according to Sophos. 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?
The main difference between malware and ransomware is their goal. Malware wants to cause damage or steal info. Ransomware wants to get money from you directly.
While malware wants to take your data, ransomware will lock your files and demand payment to unlock them. Their methods are also different. Malware works in secret and you may not know it’s there. Ransomware makes its presence known so the attackers can ask you for money.
How Does It Get onto Your Computer?
Malware and ransomware can end up on your computer in many of the same ways.
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 of malware infection, but new techniques are emerging. Fileless malware is expected to increase by 65% in 2024, and AI-assisted malware may account for 20% of strains by 2025. If you become infected with malware or ransomware, it is crucial to act quickly. Be aware of the signs of infection to better 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?
You can take steps to stay safe from both malware and ransomware. First, here are some general safety tips for malware and ransomware:
- Keep your software up to date
- Use strong passwords
- Don’t click on strange links or attachments
- Backup your files regularly
For malware specifically, you can protect yourself by using anti-virus programs and being selective with what you download. To stay safe from ransomware, take offline backups of your files and use ransomware-specific protection tools.
What to Do If You’re Attacked
If you suspect that you have malware or ransomware, take action right away.
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 is essential for better protection against threats. This knowledge enables you to respond effectively during an attack. The more you understand the nature of the threat, the better your chances are of taking the appropriate steps to ensure your safety. If you find yourself under attack, recognizing the type of threat allows you to act quickly. You can then implement the right measures to resolve the issue and safeguard your data.
Stay Safe in the Digital World
The digital world can be dangerous, but you can stay safe by being vigilant. It’s important to understand the differences between malware and ransomware, and to practice good online safety habits every day.
If you need assistance in protecting yourself online, don’t hesitate to ask for help. For more information on securing your digital life, please contact us. We are here to help you stay safe against all types of cyber threats.