News & Insights.

Cybersecurity threats are constantly evolving. Terms like malware and ransomware are often used interchangeably. While they are related, they are not the same thing. For businesses, understanding the difference is vital to protecting systems, data and reputation.

Our Customer Support Engineer, Zak Davidson, put together a guide that breaks down how malware and ransomware differ, what signs to look for and how your business can defend against them.

What is Malware

Malware, short for “malicious software”, is a broad category that covers any software created to harm, exploit, or disrupt computers, networks, or users.

Common types of malware

• Viruses Attach themselves to legitimate programs and spread when the program is run.
• Trojans Disguise themselves as harmless applications but deliver harmful payloads.
• Spyware Secretly collects data such as keystrokes, login credentials, or browsing history.
• Adware Bombards users with unwanted ads, sometimes leading to more malicious software.
• Worms Spread across networks automatically, often without user interaction.

Ransomware is a specific type of malware designed to extort money.

What is Ransomware

Ransomware is malware with a clear financial motive. It encrypts or locks files and demands payment, a ransom, for their release.

How ransomware works

1. It infects a device, often via phishing emails or malicious downloads.
2. It encrypts files, making them inaccessible.
3. It displays a ransom note, usually demanding cryptocurrency.

Unlike other forms of malware that may operate quietly, ransomware announces itself loudly. Its goal is to scare victims into paying.

Spotting the difference

Malware

• Definition Any software designed to harm or exploit.
• Symptoms Slow performance, crashes, unusual pop ups, strange processes running.
• Motivation Can vary, data theft, surveillance, disruption, advertising.
• Visibility Often tries to stay hidden to steal data or spy undetected.

Warning signs of malware

• Devices running unusually slow.
• Frequent crashes or error messages.
• Unfamiliar programs or processes.
• Browser redirects or excessive pop ups.
• Antivirus being disabled without action.

Ransomware

• Definition A type of malware that locks or encrypts data and demands payment.
• Symptoms Files suddenly inaccessible, ransom note on screen, demands for payment.
• Motivation Purely financial, extortion through data encryption or system lockout.
• Visibility Makes itself obvious immediately after encrypting files.

Warning signs of ransomware

• Inability to open files that were previously accessible.
• File extensions changing unexpectedly.
• A sudden ransom message demanding payment.
• Locked screens preventing normal use.
• Strange files or notes with payment instructions.

How to protect your business

One, train your employees

Most attacks begin with phishing. Teach staff to recognise suspicious emails, links and attachments.

Two, keep systems updated

Patch software, operating systems and applications to close security gaps.

Three, use endpoint protection

Modern antivirus and anti malware solutions can detect and block threats before they spread.

Four, back up data regularly

A solid backup strategy is one of the best defences against ransomware. Store backups securely, off site and test them regularly.

Five, monitor for unusual activity

Proactive monitoring helps detect malware early before it escalates into bigger problems.

Six, partner with experts

The team at SystemLabs can assess vulnerabilities, implement protective measures and provide monitoring to keep your business safe.

By recognising the warning signs and putting strong defences in place, your business can reduce the risk of falling victim to either.