Every time you check your email or explore a website, you’re just a click away from potentially downloading malware. It’s like a digital pickpocket that can sneak into your device, swipe your personal information, and compromise your online privacy.
But wait, isn’t malware the same as a virus? Let’s find out.
Malware vs. virus: What’s the difference?
There’s no denying that malware and viruses stand as significant threats in the online world. They can compromise your sensitive data and even lead to financial losses. However, even though the two terms are often used interchangeably, it’s important to understand their differences.
What is malware?
Malware, short for “malicious software,” is an umbrella term used for a variety of harmful programs designed to infiltrate and harm computer systems. It includes threats like worms, spyware, and ransomware, each with specific malicious intent. Malware can compromise data, disrupt system functionality, and facilitate unauthorized access, making it a significant threat to your digital security.
Every day, cybersecurity experts detect approximately 560,000 new pieces of malware every day. Moreover, the latest statistics suggest that there are over 1 billion malware programs currently in existence.
What is a virus?
Computer viruses are a specific type of malware. It is a self-replicating program that attaches itself to other programs or files. When these infected programs or files are executed, the virus spreads by inserting copies of itself into other programs or documents. It can damage files, software, and even hardware components.
To put it simply, all viruses are malware, but not all malware are viruses. Malware is the overarching term for any malicious software, while viruses are a subset of malware that rely on infected host programs to cause damage. They can spread through infected email attachments, downloads, or by sharing infected files.
What are the other types of malware?
If you are concerned about safeguarding your digital lifestyle, here are some of the main types of malware that you should know about.
Worms
Unlike the creepy crawlies you may be imagining, digital worms are self-propagating malware that exploits vulnerabilities to spread across networks and devices without user interaction. “WannaCry” is a well-known example of a ransomworm, as it spread through unpatched systems in 2017 and encrypted files to demand ransom.
Trojans
Disguised as legitimate software, Trojans are deceptive malware that can provide cybercriminals with unauthorized access to your computer. The “Zeus” malware is a popular example of a Trojan. It targeted online banking systems in 2007 and stole sensitive financial information from victims.
Spyware
As its name suggests, spyware covertly monitors a user’s online activities, capturing data like passwords and browsing habits. “FinFisher” is a well-known example of spyware, which was widely used by governments and hackers to surveil individuals and organizations without their consent.
Adware
Adware displays unwanted advertisements and redirects users to potentially malicious websites. In 2015, “Superfish,” a pre-installed adware on some Lenovo laptops, compromised security by installing its own root certificate, making users susceptible to attacks.
Ransomware
Ransomware is malicious software that encrypts a victim’s files, rendering them inaccessible. Attackers demand a ransom to provide a decryption key that restores access. This type of cyberattack can paralyze businesses, organizations, and individuals, making ransomware a serious and lucrative threat in the digital landscape.
Read more: VPN vs. antivirus: Understanding the differences
Malware vs. virus: How to stay safe?
Follow these tips to stay safe from malware, including a computer virus:
Keep all the devices and software up-to-date
Regularly updating your operating system, software, and applications is your first line of defense. These updates often contain crucial security patches that help seal vulnerabilities that malware and viruses exploit. You can also consider setting automatic updates whenever possible to ensure you’re always protected.
Install antivirus and anti-malware software
It is recommended to equip your devices with reputable antivirus and anti-malware software. These digital security tools can protect your online privacy by scanning for malicious programs and potential threats. It is a good practice to regularly schedule scans and allow them to safeguard your system proactively.
Practice smart online behavior
Cybercriminals often use social engineering tactics to trick users into downloading malware or revealing sensitive information. So, always be cautious of suspicious emails, attachments, or links, especially if they come from unknown sources. It is also recommended to verify the sender’s authenticity to avoid phishing and malware attacks.
Secure your network
Want to protect your digital lifestyle? You may want to set strong passwords for your online accounts and use a premium password manager such as PureKeep to keep track of them securely. Additionally, ensure your WiFi network is encrypted to prevent unauthorized access. You can also use a top-notch Virtual Private Network such as PureVPN to enhance your digital security.
Backup your data
Despite your best efforts, malware or viruses could still find their way into your system. However, regularly backing up your data to an external drive or a secure cloud service could keep your data safe during a malware attack. This way, your important files will remain safe and recoverable even if a hacker breaks into your computer.
On a final note
When it comes to the malware vs. virus debate, most people tend to think they are one and the same. Although the two are closely related, it is important to understand the difference between malware and viruses in order to protect your online privacy and security.
If you want to learn more about phishing and malware attacks, please stay connected to PureVPN Blog.
Read more: Does a VPN protect you from viruses & malware? Find out!