TL;DR
A malware attack can bring your business to a halt. This blog breaks down what malware is, why SMEs are targeted, and how cyber awareness training helps your team stay one step ahead.
What is malware?
Let’s start with the basics. Malware (short for malicious software) is a broad term for software designed to infiltrate, damage, or steal from your systems.
It hides in fake downloads, phishing emails, and even dodgy browser extensions. It’s stealthy, destructive, and growing fast.
If you’ve been searching “what is malware,” you’re not alone—and this is your no-nonsense explanation.
Types of malware: the malware attack hit list
- Ransomware – Encrypts your files and demands a ransom. Data held hostage.
- Spyware – Silently monitors your activity and sends it to cyber criminals.
- Trojans – Disguised as legit software but loaded with malware.
- Keyloggers – Record everything you type, including passwords.
- Cryptojacking – Hijacks your systems to mine cryptocurrency without your permission.
A malware attack doesn’t just cause inconvenience, it can wipe out trust, time, and even revenue.
Why SMEs are prime targets for malware attacks
Let’s be real, cyber criminals love SMEs. Here’s why:
- You hold valuable data like client details, bank info, and credentials.
- You might not have a dedicated cyber security team.
- You’re less likely to invest in cyber security for SMEs.
- You believe “It won’t happen to us.”
And that’s exactly why it does.
Why cyber awareness training works better than panic
Most cyber attacks don’t start with code. They start with a click.
One team member opens a fake invoice email. One person downloads a dodgy plugin. That’s all it takes.
That’s where cyber awareness training saves the day.
At Cloud & More, we use Phished, a training tool that drops fake phishing emails into your team’s inboxes to test how they react, without the real-world consequences.
Picture this:
Karen spots a fake Dropbox login page. She flags it.
Steve… enters his password. Again.
It’s funny, but also essential. Because your team is the front line of defence.
Why cyber security for SMEs starts with your people
You don’t need a 10-person IT department to stay safe. You need a team that knows:
- What a phishing email looks like.
- Why “too good to be true” links usually are.
- How to report suspicious activity fast.
That’s what cyber awareness training delivers and it pays for itself the first time someone avoids a scam.
5 ways to stop malware before it spreads
1. Train your team
Cyber awareness training gives your people real-world skills to spot threats early.
2. Keep your tech updated
Outdated software = open doors. Install updates regularly across all devices.
3. Back up your data
If ransomware hits, a clean backup can save the day.
4. Use MFA (multi-factor authentication)
Even if a password is stolen, MFA keeps your data protected.
5. Work with an IT team that cares
At Cloud & More, we specialise in cyber security for SMEs, making sure your systems, people, and data are always protected.
Final thought: don’t be Steve
Malware might be smart, but a well-trained team is smarter.
Want to protect your business from a malware attack? Start with your people. Start with training.
Book your free 20-minute discovery call and find out how Cloud & More can help build a human firewall around your business.
UK Malware Statistics 2025
According to the UK Government’s Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2025, the estimated percentage of all businesses who experienced a ransomware crime in the last 12 months increased from less than 0.5% in 2024 to 1% in 2025, equating to an estimated 19,000 businesses.
Turn your team into your first line of defence
Malware isn’t going anywhere, but with Phished training, a solid cyber security plan, and a little humour (because let’s face it, this stuff can be dry), you can keep your business safe.
Want to learn more about how Phished training works or how we can help you stay one step ahead of cyber criminals? Give us a call 0333 577 0966 we’ll even answer the phone!
