Malware vs. virus: What is the difference?

What is malware?

Malware refers to any type of software designed to harm the target system or user. Many different types of malware have emerged over the years. Some are designed to steal sensitive data, while others will destroy files or corrupt your system. Malware could potentially end up on your computer if you open an unsecured email attachment or visit a malicious website. 

The most common types of malware

Different types of malware cause different types of damage to your computer. Let’s take a look at some of the most common types of malware and how they work. 

• Ransomware: This type of malware encrypts files on your computer so you can’t access them and then demands a ransom payment. Ransomware has become incredibly common and can be devastating if you don’t have backup copies of your most important files. 
• Spyware: These sneaky programs run in the background on your computer to steal sensitive information. They can record your browsing history, steal account information, and even take screenshots. 
• Trojan: A trojan masquerades as a legitimate software program but contains malicious functionality. Hackers often create fake websites or use phishing emails to trick victims into downloading these programs. 
• Fileless malware: Fileless malware doesn’t install itself on your hard drive. Instead, it runs in your system’s memory (RAM), exploiting trusted system tools to execute malicious actions, making it harder to detect.
• Keyloggers: These software tools fly under the radar, recording everything you type on your keyboard. This type of malware helps hackers find passwords and credit card numbers.
• Adware: These programs place unwanted ads on your device, causing it to run slowly. While it isn’t as dangerous as other types of malware, adware can be very annoying and make it difficult to use your device as intended. 
• Cryptojacking: This type of malware sets up a crypto mining operation on your device without your consent. Hackers use this type of malware to expand their mining power and increase their earnings. 

What is a virus?

A computer virus is a type of malware that makes copies of itself to spread between devices. The virus will attach itself to a host file and execute malicious code when that file runs. This attack can result in lost files, hacked accounts, and damage to your device. This code also attaches itself to new files as it runs, which causes the virus to spread. 

The most common types of viruses

Different types of computer viruses spread and cause damage in various ways, each with its own method of infecting systems and avoiding detection. Below are some of the most common types to watch out for.

• File infector: These viruses attach their malicious code to executable files and spread malicious code when you run them.
• Polymorphic virus: These viruses evolve over time, changing their code each time they replicate. They often evade traditional antivirus tools, which can’t spot their code shifts. 
• Boot sector virus: This virus infects your computer’s boot sector, which prevents it from running your operating system properly. 
• Resident virus: This type of virus infects and replicates inside your computer’s RAM. It continues to wreak havoc on your computer even after you delete the host program the virus spread through. 
• Web scripting virus: Web scripting viruses use vulnerabilities in websites (like XSS flaws) to inject malicious scripts that can steal data or perform unwanted actions on a user’s browser.
• Multipartite virus: This virus infects multiple parts of your system to spread simultaneously. For example, it can infect both executable files and your device’s memory. 

What’s the difference between malware and a virus?

A virus is a type of malware that spreads using malicious code. However, many other types of malware operate differently. All viruses are a form of malware, but not all types of malware are viruses.  

For example, ransomware and spyware are often spread through phishing emails and other social engineering scams, rather than replicating themselves through malicious code. Both malware and viruses can cause significant damage to your systems, but the specifics of the attack differ. 

Why are the terms malware and virus misused?

The terms “malware” and “virus” are often used interchangeably, even though they mean different things. This happens because a virus is a type of malware, and all forms of malware can cause significant damage to your systems, so sometimes people conflate the terminology. 

Anti-malware and antivirus detection

One of the most efficient ways to protect your device against these digital threats is to install anti-malware and antivirus programs. These software programs monitor your device for signs of malware and viruses. They can block suspicious files, messages, and websites to prevent these threats from spreading. 

While the terms antivirus and anti-malware were once used to describe different types of protection, modern security programs typically are not so limited — they defend against a wide range of threats, including viruses, ransomware, spyware, worms, and trojans.

How to know if your device is infected with malware or a virus

It’s important to know the signs of a virus or a malware program on your computer so you can remove it and stop it from spreading:

• Slow performance. Malware runs in the background and interferes with your device’s performance. If your websites, apps, and files are taking too long to load, it could be because malware is using up resources. 
• Annoying pop-ups and ads. If your device is bombarded with strange pop-up windows or ads, you could have accidentally picked up an adware program. 
• Unexpected crashes. Because malware uses up so much of your system’s resources, it can cause your device to crash or freeze randomly. 
• Rapid battery drain. A device that’s been taken over by a virus or other malware will struggle to hold a charge because it will be working harder to conduct malicious activity in the background. 
• Strange software programs. Sometimes malware hides in plain sight. If you notice unfamiliar icons on your desktop or in your task bar, they could belong to a malicious program. 

How to protect your devices against malware and viruses

To protect your devices against malware and viruses, be sure to use an up-to-date anti-malware program. Such a program will work as a malware scanner, which will notify you about any strange software that it finds on your device. In some cases, anti-malware software can even remove the program automatically to mitigate damage. 

If you think you have a virus or other form of malware on your device, start by disconnecting the device from the internet so the dangerous file or files cannot spread or replicate. Then run a full system scan using reputable anti-malware or antivirus software. If the malware prevents your security tools from running properly, try booting your device into safe mode or using a bootable rescue disk provided by a trusted security vendor to detect and remove the infection.

Safe browsing practices can also help you avoid accidentally downloading malware. When you need to download a new software program, make sure to use official distribution platforms. Don’t use peer-to-peer sharing sites, which often spread trojans and other malware programs. 

Additionally, be wary when opening emails from unknown senders. Don’t download email attachments until they’ve been scanned by your anti-malware software. When browsing the web, don’t click on pop-up ads and look for HTTPS.