ransomware

noun

ran·​som·​ware ˈran(t)-səm-ˌwer 

: malware that requires the victim to pay a ransom to access encrypted files

In September of 2013, security for small accounting offices changed forever with the appearance of a new class of threats called ransomware. … you open a file attached to an innocent-looking e-mail, and the program encrypts key files and drives so they cannot be accessed. The files are locked until you pay a ransom.

—Dave Mcclure

With ransomware, a hacker slips into a system, then puts encryption controls in place that locks users out. The hackers then demand money to "unlock" the data.

—Elizabeth Millard

Today's ransomware scammers often demand payment in bitcoin because the digital currency is easy to use, fast and provides a heightened anonymity for the scammers, according to the FBI warning.

—Susan Tompor

Examples of ransomware in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Restricting access to sensitive data based on your team’s roles reduces exposure—and of course, maintaining regular backups enables quick recovery in the event of a ransomware attack. —Anri Amir David, Forbes, 28 Feb. 2025

This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. —Kurt Knutsson, Cyberguy Report, Fox News, 27 Feb. 2025

When Biden met Russian President Vladimir Putin in June 2021, the two leaders spent little time discussing Ukraine and instead focused on ransomware attacks on the United States launched from Russia. —Foreign Affairs, 25 Feb. 2025

Photo-Illustration: Wired Staff/Getty Images For much of the past year, the trail of destruction and mayhem left behind by ransomware hackers was on full display. —Andy Greenberg, WIRED, 5 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

2005, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for ransomware

• aftercare
• anywhere
• billionaire
• chinaware
• debonair
• dinnerware
• disrepair
• doctrinaire
• earthenware
• everywhere
• frigidaire
• kitchenware