Difference Between Malware, Ransomware, and Spyware: A Practical Guide
Cyber threats are no longer just a “big company” problem. From students to startups, everyone is a target. Yet most people still confuse malware, ransomware, and spyware , treating them as the same thing. That confusion is dangerous. As professionals working in Mumbai Cyber Security , we see daily how this lack of clarity leads to poor decisions and costly mistakes. Let’s fix that. This guide breaks down the difference between malware, ransomware, and spyware in plain English, with practical tips you can actually use. What Is Malware? (The Umbrella Term) Malware is short for malicious software . It’s a broad category that includes any software designed to harm, disrupt, or exploit your system. Think of malware as the criminal family , and ransomware and spyware as specific criminals within it. Common Types of Malware Viruses Worms Trojans Ransomware Spyware From a Cyber Security Mumbai perspective, malware is the entry point for most cyber attacks we i...