Published on Tuesday, 15 April 2025 at 12:55:14 PM
Malware and ransomware are types of software that can harm your computer or compromise your data.. In 2024, AV-TEST, an Independent IT-Security Institute recorded the existence of over 60 million new strains of malware on the internet.
Downloading such software can lead to significant repercussions. Let's learn more about malware and ransomware, and their harmful impact.
What is Malware?
Malware, short for "malicious software," includes harmful programs that can damage your computer. The four main types of malware are:
- 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 create various issues. If you get malware on your device, it can:
- Slow down your computer
- Delete your files
- Steal your personal information
- Use your computer to attack others
What is Ransomware?
Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts your files or entire computer systems, requiring payment for decryption. It restricts access to data until the demanded amount is paid.
Ransomware goes by a pretty basic pattern:
- It infects your computer, typically through an email or download.
- It encrypts your files, locking them with a secret code.
- It displays a message demanding money for decryption.
- Paying the ransom may or may not result in getting a key to unlock your files, as attackers might not keep their promise after receiving the payment.
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 variant locks the entire computer system.
- Crypto ransomware: This type only encrypts specific files.
How Do Malware and Ransomware Differ?
The primary distinction between malware and ransomware lies in their objectives. Whereas malware is designed to cause harm or steal information, ransomware seeks to extort money from its victims directly.
While malware often operates covertly, making it difficult for users to detect its presence, ransomware makes its existence known to compel individuals to pay a ransom. In essence, malware aims to extract data, whereas ransomware encrypts files and demands payment for their release.
How Does It Reach 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, but new techniques are on the rise. For example, 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:
- 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?
Protecting yourself from both malware and ransomware requires vigilance and proactive measures:
- Keep your software up to date.
- Use strong, unique passwords.
- Avoid clicking on suspicious links or attachments.
- Regularly back up your files.
For malware protection, employ reputable anti-virus programs and be cautious with downloads. To safeguard against ransomware, ensure you have offline backups of your data and use specialised ransomware protection tools.
For comprehensive protection and expert guidance, it is advisable to seek assistance from a reputable company. Integrated ICT offers robust security solutions tailored to safeguard your business against cyber threats. Our team of experts can help you implement advanced security measures, ensuring your business remains protected and resilient against both malware and ransomware attacks.
What to Do If You’re Attacked
If you have been Infected by malware or ransomware, immediate action is imperative.
For Malware:
- Disconnect from the internet.
- Perform a comprehensive scan using a reputable anti-virus program.
- Eliminate any detected malicious files.
- Update all your passwords.
For Ransomware:
- Disconnect from the internet.
- Refrain from paying the ransom, as this may not guarantee resolution.
- Report the incident to the relevant authorities.
- Restore your data from a backup.
Speak to the team at Integrated ICT to discover ways you can guard against malware and ransomware. Call 6374 8200 or email hello@integratedict.com.au or complete an online form.
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