Common threats (malware, phishing, ransomware) in Intro to Computing - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What is malware?

Malware is bad software designed to harm or take control of your computer without your permission. It can steal information, slow down your device, or cause other problems.

beginner

What does phishing mean?

Phishing is a trick where someone pretends to be a trustworthy person or company to steal your personal information like passwords or credit card numbers.

beginner

Explain ransomware in simple terms.

Ransomware is a type of malware that locks your files or computer and asks for money to unlock them. It's like a digital kidnapper.

intermediate

How can you protect yourself from phishing attacks?

You can protect yourself by not clicking on suspicious links, checking the sender's email carefully, and never sharing passwords or personal info through email.

beginner

What is a real-world analogy for ransomware?

Imagine someone locks your house and demands money before giving you the key. Ransomware does the same but with your computer files.

Which of the following is NOT a type of malware?

A Worm

B Virus

C Phishing

D Trojan Horse

Phishing is a type of social trick, not malware itself. Virus, Worm, and Trojan Horse are types of malware.

What does ransomware do to your files?

A Deletes them permanently

B Sends them to your contacts

C Copies them to another device

D Locks them and asks for money

Ransomware locks your files and demands payment to unlock them.

Phishing attacks usually try to steal your:

A Physical mail

B Passwords and personal info

C Computer hardware

D Internet connection

Phishing tricks you into giving away passwords and personal information.

Which action helps protect against malware?

A Using antivirus software

B Installing software from unknown sources

C Clicking all email links

D Sharing passwords with friends

Using antivirus software helps detect and remove malware.

A common sign of a phishing email is:

A A request for personal info with urgent language

B An email from a known friend

C A newsletter you subscribed to

D A message with no links

Phishing emails often use urgent language to trick you into giving personal info.

Describe what malware, phishing, and ransomware are, using simple words and examples.

Think about how each one can affect your computer or personal information.

Explain three ways you can protect yourself from common online threats like malware, phishing, and ransomware.

Consider habits that keep your computer and information safe.