Section: IT & Technology · CybersecurityDifficulty: Easy
Ransomware
USUK
A type of malware that encrypts a victim's files and demands payment for the decryption key.
Definition
Ransomware is a type of malicious software that encrypts a victim's files or locks their system, making data inaccessible until a ransom is paid — typically in cryptocurrency. Modern ransomware attacks often involve double extortion, where attackers also threaten to publish stolen data. Ransomware is typically delivered via phishing emails, malicious downloads, or exploitation of unpatched vulnerabilities. Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) has lowered the barrier for launching attacks.
Example
“A manufacturing company's entire production system was encrypted by ransomware delivered via a phishing email, halting operations for three days.”
Synonyms
- extortion malware
- crypto-malware
- file-encrypting malware
Antonyms / Opposites
- decryptor
- data recovery tool
Images
CC-licensed · free to useLoading images…
Video
Related Terms
- malware
- encryption
- backup
- incident-response