Malware types (virus, worm, trojan, ransomware) in Cybersecurity - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What is a computer virus?

A computer virus is a type of malware that attaches itself to files or programs and spreads when those files are shared or opened. It can damage or delete data and slow down your computer.

beginner

How does a worm differ from a virus?

A worm is malware that can spread by itself over networks without needing to attach to files. It can quickly infect many computers by exploiting network connections.

beginner

What is a Trojan horse in cybersecurity?

A Trojan horse is malware disguised as something harmless or useful. When you open it, it can give attackers access to your computer or steal information.

beginner

What does ransomware do?

Ransomware is malware that locks or encrypts your files and demands money (a ransom) to unlock them. It can stop you from using your own data until you pay.

intermediate

Which malware type spreads without user action?

A worm spreads automatically over networks without needing the user to open files or programs, unlike viruses or Trojans.

Which malware attaches itself to files and spreads when those files are shared?

A Virus

B Worm

C Trojan

D Ransomware

A virus attaches to files and spreads when those files are opened or shared.

Which malware can spread on its own through networks without user help?

A Worm

B Virus

C Trojan

D Ransomware

A worm spreads automatically over networks without needing user action.

What type of malware pretends to be a safe program but actually harms your computer?

A Virus

B Worm

C Trojan

D Ransomware

A Trojan disguises itself as a harmless program to trick users.

Which malware locks your files and demands payment to unlock them?

A Worm

B Ransomware

C Trojan

D Virus

Ransomware encrypts or locks files and asks for money to restore access.

Which malware requires you to open or run a file to infect your computer?

A Worm

B None of the above

C Ransomware

D Virus

A virus needs you to open or run an infected file to spread.

Explain the main differences between a virus, worm, Trojan, and ransomware.

Think about how each malware spreads and what it does to your computer.

Describe a real-life example or situation where ransomware could affect someone.

Imagine losing access to your photos or work documents suddenly.