This may sound a little tricky, but viruses, malware, and ransomware are not the same. While these three terms sound similar, they have different characteristics and features:

Malware

1. •The term covers any software designed and used to damage a computer, server, network, or digital information.
2. •It encompasses viruses, spyware, worms, trojans, ransomware, etc.
3. •The intent of malware can range from data theft to system failures, spying on users, or exploiting vulnerabilities for unauthorized access.

Ransomware

1. •Blocks or encrypts data until a ransom is paid.
2. •It often spreads through phishing emails, infected attachments, or malicious websites.
3. •The primary goal is financial gain, as cybercriminals hold the user's files hostage until a payment is made.

Virus

1. •Attaches itself to a legitimate program or file and spreads to other programs or files on a system when executed.
2. •It requires human intervention, like opening an infected file or running a program, to activate and spread.
3. •Once active, viruses can damage or delete files, disrupt system performance, and steal sensitive information.

As malware, ransomware, and viruses continue to evolve, cybersecurity education can help both businesses and individuals understand and adopt proactive cybersecurity measures to minimize potential damage.

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