Commonly confused

Malware vs Ransomware

Malware is the broad class of hostile software. Ransomware is malware that encrypts or locks data for payment.

Malware

Malware, short for malicious software, is any software intentionally designed to cause damage to a computer, server, client, or computer network. It operates by infiltrating systems without the user's consent, often through deceptive means like phishing emails or compromised.

Malware is software designed to harm computers, servers, or networks, often infiltrating systems without consent.

Full PathTerms™ definition

Ransomware

Ransomware is a type of malicious software designed to deny access to a user's data or system until a ransom is paid. It achieves this by encrypting files or locking the entire system, rendering them unusable without a specific decryption key. Attackers typically gain entry.

Ransomware encrypts your data and demands payment for its release, causing significant operational disruption and financial loss.

Full PathTerms™ definition

Why it matters

People mix up Malware and Ransomware in exam questions and job posts. Knowing the difference helps you pick the right control, process, or architecture choice.

How to remember the difference

Malware is the broad class of hostile software. Ransomware is malware that encrypts or locks data for payment.

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