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Malware and ransomware are two types of bad software. They can damage your computer or steal your data. Downloading this harmful software comes with serious consequences. In 2024, there were more than 60 million new strains of malware found on the internet.
This is why it’s critical to understand the difference between them. This article will help you understand both types of threats.
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:
Malware can cause a lot of problems. If you get malware on your device, it can:
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:
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:
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.
Malware and ransomware can end up on your computer in many of the same ways.
These include:
These are the most common methods, but new techniques are on the rise. Fileless malware was expected to grow 65% in 2024, and AI-assisted malware may make up 20% of strains in 2025. If you get infected by malware or ransomware, it’s important to act quickly. You should know these signs of infection to protect yourself.
For malware:
For ransomware:
You can take steps to stay safe from both malware and ransomware. First, here are some general safety tips for malware and ransomware:
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.
If you suspect that you have malware or ransomware, take action right away.
For Malware:
For Ransomware:
Knowing the difference between malware and ransomware can help with better protection. This will help you respond in the best way when attacked. The more you know what you are against, the better your chance at taking the right steps to keep yourself safe. If you are under attack, knowing what type of threat it is helps you take quicker action. You can take proper steps towards rectifying the problem and keeping your data safe.
The digital world can be hazardous. But you can keep safe if you’re careful. Keep in mind the differences between malware and ransomware, and practice good safety habits daily.
And, if you are in need of help to keep yourself safe on the internet, never hesitate to ask for assistance. For further information on protecting your digital life, contact us. We want to help keep you secure in the face of all types of cyber threats.
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This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.
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