What is the difference between scareware and ransomware?

Scareware and ransomware are both types of malicious software, but they differ in terms of behavior and impact. Scareware typically tricks users into believing their computer is infected with viruses or malware and prompts them to purchase fake antivirus software to solve the issue. Scareware aims to deceive users for financial gain but doesn’t usually encrypt files or demand a ransom.

On the other hand, ransomware encrypts a user’s files and demands a ransom payment in exchange for providing the decryption key. Ransomware directly impacts the user by denying access to their files or systems until the ransom is paid. Unlike scareware, ransomware is more malicious and can cause significant disruption and financial loss.

In summary, scareware seeks to deceive users into buying fake solutions, while ransomware holds files hostage for ransom payment.