Ransomware: Terrifying Virus or Destructive Worm?
Ransomware—it's a word that's been making headlines and causing headaches for individuals and businesses alike. But what exactly is ransomware? And how does it compare to other types of malware like viruses and worms? You're not alone if you're scratching your head over these questions. Let's dive in and clear up the confusion. Understanding Malware Before we get into the nitty-gritty of ransomware, let's step back and understand what malware is. Malware, or malicious software, is created to damage or exploit programmable devices, services, or networks. There are several types of malware, each with its unique way of causing trouble. The most prevalent types are viruses, worms, trojans, and ransomware. What is a Virus? Definition and Spread A computer virus is a malware that attaches itself to a clean file and spreads throughout a computer system, infecting files. Like a biological virus, it needs a host to survive and propagate. When you run an infected program,...