Why this matters
Malware infects office computers, phones and servers across Ghana, often through files shared in messages or pirated software. Analyst adverts ask for malware awareness and response. Ransomware is especially damaging because it can stop a hospital, school or business from working at all.
What malware is
Malware is any software built to harm, spy or steal. Common types:
- Virus and worm: spread from file to file or computer to computer. Worms spread by themselves across networks.
- Trojan: pretends to be something useful, like a free game, a "cracked" program or a fake app, but hides a harmful part.
- Spyware and info stealers: quietly collect passwords, banking details and codes. Ghana's Cyber Security Authority has warned about harmful files shared through WhatsApp that try to steal banking logins and codes.
- Ransomware: encrypts files so they cannot be opened, then demands payment for a key. Some groups also steal data first and threaten to publish it.
How it usually arrives
- Opening an attachment or ZIP file from a message or email.
- Installing pirated software or apps from outside official stores.
- Plugging in an infected flash drive, which is common in shared business centres.