Threats, malware, and attack techniques

Ransomware

Ransomware is a type of malware (malicious software) that cybercriminals use to block access to data or a computer system until a ransom has been paid. In ransomware attacks, the victim’s data is encrypted so that they can’t access files, databases or applications without the right ‘key’ to decrypt them. It’s nearly impossible to decrypt the files that are being held for ransom without the key. Ransomware is typically spread through phishing (fraudulent emails) or malicious software downloads.