This research presents results related to the capacity of students and staff members to detect malware threats. Eight malware groups were defined by researchers as the most common threats to higher education systems such as virus, Ransomware, worm, Trojan, browser hijacker, spyware root kit malware, and adware. To highlight the importance of identifying security risks, the effect of malware intrusions on higher education systems has to be understood. This research studies the approach and awareness level of University staff and students worldwide to identify and tackle problems related to malware threats. A model recommendation will be proposed for educating faculty and staff members so as to identify malware threats in less identified categories to help alleviate future malware intrusions.

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Keywords: Ransomware, Cryptocurrency, Antivirus, Security Threats, Risk Factors.