Viruses vs. Malware — What’s the Difference? 

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I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. The internet is a lot like the wild west! (Cue dramatic guitar music.) Anything goes, and there are plenty of bad guys out there. As a business owner, knowing the threats and what you need to protect your computer system from is half the battle. You’ve probably heard of computer viruses and malware, but you might be wondering – what’s the difference, and how can they harm my business? Here’s the facts on viruses vs. malware, plus what you can do to stay safe. 


Viruses 

What is a computer virus? A virus is a malicious executable code attached to another executable file which can modify or delete data. Wait, whaaaat? Let’s break that down a bit further. 

Malicious – that’s bad. Out to get ya…(or in this case, your computer system and your important information stored on it). 


Executable code – machine language that your computer understands that tells it to do stuff. 

Executable file – a type of computer file that runs a program when it is opened. 

Once a virus infiltrates your computer system, it will attach itself to a program, file, or document. The virus can lay dormant for a long time, until the program is run or the file is opened. Once opened, the code is executed and the virus infects your computer. Much like human viruses, computer viruses are designed to spread and can infect other computers on the same network. Yikes! 

The damage viruses can do ranges from manini to some pretty serious stuff. Viruses can steal passwords or data, log keystrokes, corrupt files, spam your email contacts, erase data, or even cause permanent damage to your computer’s hard drive. A virus is a type of Malware. 



Malware 

Malware is a program designed to gain access to computer systems, normally for the benefit of some third party, without the user’s permission. Malware includes computer viruses, worms, Trojan horses, ransomware, spyware and other malicious programs. 

Different types of Malware are designed to do different things. For instance, ransomware can be used to hijack important business information and then manipulate the owners, as was seen with the infamous SONY Ransomware attack in 2014. As part of the attack, thousands of confidential documents, private email communications, and unreleased films were leaked to the public. Spyware remains quiet while secretly recording information and tracking your online activities for nefarious purposes. 


Signs You May Have a Virus or Malware

Keep and eye out for signs that might indicate a virus or malware on your computer, including: 

  • Missing files 

  • Computer is running slow 

  • Programs are crashing

  • Your hard drive space is suddenly full 

  • Homepage has changed 

  • Passwords are changed

  • Text or Email notifications informing of a login attempt you did not initiate



How Do Viruses and Malware Spread?

Computer viruses and malware can be picked up from email and text message attachments, internet file downloads, shady app downloads to your smartphone, social media scam links, and more. Typically, some initial action is required by you, the user, like clicking a link or downloading a file. 


Safety Precautions

To avoid catching a computer virus, exercise caution online, downloading files, and opening links or attachments. Don’t download text or email attachments that you’re not expecting, or files from websites you don’t trust. 

In addition, there are many excellent virus and malware protection programs on the market that can help to monitor and protect your computer system. Talk to your trusted IT professional to learn more about what programs might be right for you. Contact Us.