Ransomware
A specific type of malware designed to block access to a system or data until a ransom fee is paid.
Did you know?
Most ransomwares don't delete your files. Instead, they lock or encrypt them so you can’t use them until you pay up.
Recent trends
The first ransomware attack happened in 1989 and spread on floppy disks. Nowadays, ransomware attacks are becoming more aggressive, with some attacks adding on DDoS attacks to pile on pressure. Ransomware-as-a-service kits also make it easier for low-skill criminals to get involved, while AI helps craft more sophisticated phishing attacks that deliver the malware. Critical industries like healthcare, education, and local governments are top targets, since their downtime cause high levels of devastation.