Cybersecurity
Ransomware
Definition
Ransomware is a type of malware that threatens to publish the victim's personal data or perpetually block access to it unless a ransom is paid. The most common form involves encrypting the victim's files and demanding a payment to receive the decryption key.
Why It Matters
Ransomware attacks are a massive and growing threat to businesses and individuals. They can be devastating, causing significant financial loss, data loss, and operational downtime.
Contextual Example
A hospital's computer systems are infected with ransomware, encrypting all patient records. The attackers demand a payment in Bitcoin to restore access, forcing the hospital to cancel appointments and revert to paper records.
Common Misunderstandings
- Paying the ransom does not guarantee that you will get your data back.
- The best defense against ransomware is having regular, offline backups of your important data.