Difference between Malware and Ransomware
Last Updated :
22 Jun, 2020
1. Malware :
Malware is an umbrella term that is used to describe all types of malicious software. Malware can be used by attackers to perform variety of malicious actions like spying on the target using spyware, destroying data and resources, causing error in the system and slow down the performance. Virus, Trojan horses, worms and spyware are the various types of malware along with a few others.
2. Ransomware :
Ransomware is a type of malware that is designed to block user access from own system until a ransom fee is paid to ransomware creator. Ransomware is a lot dangerous than a regular malware and spread through phishing emails having infected attachments. Ransomware has emerged over the last few years and can attack individuals or organizations.
Difference between Malware and Ransomware :
| S.No. |
Malware |
Ransomware |
| 1. |
Malware is any file or a malicious code, designed to cause damage to a user’s personal computer and network. |
Ransomware is a form of malware designed to block access from system until a ransom fee is paid. |
| 2. |
Malware refers to a lot of different malicious software. |
Ransomware is one of the type of malware. |
| 3. |
Malware is delivered via emails, software installations, USB or surfing through internet. |
Ransomware is generally spread through phishing emails having malicious attachments. |
| 4. |
All other malware programs are less harmful than Ransomware and can be removed by using antivirus progrmas. |
Ransomware is more harmful among all the malware as the only way of removal is to pay a ransom to its creator. |
| 5. |
Virus, trojan horses, worms and spyware are the various types of malware along with a few others. |
Ransomware are of only two types- crypto and locker. |
| 6. |
It can control data and resources, cause error, destroy system and slow down the performance. |
It provides profit to the ransomware programmers by getting money from user for unlocking the system. |
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