Malware Vs Virus?

Viruses and worms

A virus is a piece of malware that needs the action of users to spread to other computers, such as sending emails, sharing files, downloading an infected file or inserting a USB stick.

Worms, on the other hand, can propagate by themselves.

Ransomware

Ransomware is the term used for a piece of malware that encrypts the data on a computer, rendering it inaccessible to the user. An on-screen message usually appears demanding payment in exchange for a code to decrypt the data.

Vulnerability

A flaw in software that can be exploited to distrupt the normal operation of computers or networks, including tampering with or stealing data.

A "zero day" vulnerability is one that hasn't yet been made public.

Patch

An update to software that fixes a problem or a vulnerability.

Phishing

Phishing is the use of deception to gain confidential information such as usernames, passwords, bank account details and credit card number. Phishing attackers often say there is a problem with an account and send a link to sign in. Users are directed to a fake log-in made to look like the real one and end up disclosing sensitive information

Kill switch

Like on a piece of machinery, a kill switch in malware shuts down the spread of a virus or worm.

In the case of WannaCry, a cyber security specialist noted that it was contacting a domain name before it infected each computer, and would not infect the computer if it hadn't gotten a reply. The researcher registered the domain name to slow its spread, apparently with success. Experts warn that WannaCry's code could be changed so it does not have a kill switch.

Botnet

A botnet is a network of infected computers. The infected computers can be controlled remotely, for instance to carry out attacks to overload websites.