Why Fort Worth Businesses Must Understand Malware and Ransomware

Small and medium size businesses are increasingly targeted by cyber threats, with malware and ransomware attacks ranking among the most disruptive and costly. As a trusted Fort Worth IT Service Provider, Inman Technologies helps local companies understand and mitigate these risks before they cause downtime or data loss.

What is Malware?

Malware, short for “malicious software,” refers to any software created to damage, disrupt, or gain unauthorized access to systems. Fort Worth businesses often encounter malware in various forms:

• Viruses – Attach to files and spread across systems.

• Worms – Replicate via networks without user action.

• Trojans – Masquerade as safe software to deceive users.

• Spyware – Collects data by secretly monitoring user activity.

Why it matters: Malware can slow operations, compromise sensitive information, and even open the door for more severe threats like ransomware.

What is Ransomware?

Ransomware is a specific type of malware that encrypts files or systems, holding them hostage until a ransom is paid—often in cryptocurrency.

How ransomware attacks typically work:

1. The device is infected via a phishing email, link, or file.

2. Critical files are encrypted and locked.

3. A ransom note appears demanding payment for decryption.

The average ransom demand in 2024 hit $2.73 million, according to Sophos—a number that should concern every Fort Worth business owner.

Malware vs. Ransomware: What’s the Real Difference?

While malware and ransomware are often used interchangeably, they’re not the same—and knowing the difference can save your business from disaster.

• Malware is the broad term for any type of malicious software designed to damage, steal, or spy on data. It includes viruses, spyware, worms, and trojans—often operating quietly in the background to avoid detection.

• Ransomware, on the other hand, is a specific type of malware with one purpose: to lock your files or systems and demand payment for their release. It doesn’t hide—it hits hard and fast, halting business operations and creating instant chaos.

Think of malware as the category and ransomware as one of the most dangerous forms within it.

At Inman Technologies, your trusted Fort Worth IT Service Provider, we help you identify, block, and recover from both—before they cost your company time, money, or reputation.

How Malware and Ransomware Enter Your Network

Common entry points:

• Phishing emails with malicious attachments

• Infected websites with drive-by downloads

• USB drives containing hidden malicious files

• Unpatched software with security flaws

As cybercriminals adopt advanced tactics like fileless malware and AI-generated attacks, it’s essential for Fort Worth businesses to have a proactive cybersecurity partner.

How Fort Worth Businesses Can Stay Protected

With the right partner and protections in place, you can dramatically reduce your risk. Here’s what Inman Technologies—your go-to Fort Worth IT Service Provider—recommends:

• Keep software up to date to eliminate known vulnerabilities.

• Train your team to spot phishing and social engineering attacks.

• Enforce strong password policies and implement multi-factor authentication (MFA).

• Back up your data regularly and securely (cloud + offline).

• Partner with a local IT Service Provider to monitor, detect, and prevent threats 24/7.

What to Do If You’re Hit with Ransomware

If your Fort Worth business suspects an attack:

1. Disconnect from the network immediately to stop the spread.

2. Call your IT provider—don’t try to fix it alone.

3. Avoid paying the ransom—there’s no guarantee you’ll get your data back.

4. Report the incident to law enforcement or the FBI.

Work with a Fort Worth IT Service Provider You Can Trust

At Inman Technologies, we specialize in protecting Fort Worth businesses from malware, ransomware, and all forms of cyber threats. As a leading Fort Worth IT Service Provider, we don’t just react—we proactively secure your systems so you can focus on running your business.

Ready to protect your data and your reputation?

Schedule a free consultation with our team today.