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

Implement strong password practices: Use unique, complex passwords for each account and consider using a password manager. 7) Regularly backup your data: Backing up your data helps protect against data loss from ransomware or device failure. —Kurt Knutsson, Cyberguy Report, Fox News, 10 Dec. 2024

This Week Ransomware’s Economic Toll The financial impact of ransomware is immense. —Heather Wishart-Smith, Forbes, 9 Dec. 2024

Blue Yonder ransomware attack drags on for a second week. —John Kell, Fortune, 4 Dec. 2024

Earlier this year, UnitedHealthcare suffered a massive ransomware attack, which leaked info on over 100 million people and snarled healthcare for weeks despite a $22 million payment to the attackers. —Wes Davis, The Verge, 4 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

2005, in the meaning defined above