Cybersecurity Glossary

Ransomware

Ransomware is a form of malware that leverages encryption to hold the operations of an organization hostage in exchange for a ransom payment.

These payments often must be made via cryptocurrency. In ransomware attacks, an attacker gains access to a victim’s data, encrypts it such that the victim can no longer access it, and holds the data hostage unless an extortion payment is made. Ransomware attacks can be initiated by exploiting gaps in an organization’s attack surface to take control of IT assets and move laterally, as well as via other channels such as phishing attacks. Due to the effectiveness of ransomware, an industry of organized crime has emerged around it, including ransomware as-a-service providers.

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