Ransomware

What Is Ransomware?

Ransomware is a type of malicious software (malware) that is designed to block access to a computer system or data until a ransom is paid. It is typically spread through phishing emails, malicious websites, or other online sources. Once installed, ransomware encrypts the victim's files and demands a ransom payment in exchange for the decryption key.

Description

Ransomware typically works by encrypting the victim's files and demanding a ransom payment in exchange for the decryption key. Once installed, ransomware can quickly spread throughout a network, encrypting files on multiple systems. Ransomware attacks can have serious consequences for businesses and individuals, including data loss, financial losses, and reputational damage.

Usage and Examples

Examples of ransomware attacks include the WannaCry attack, which affected millions of computers worldwide, and the NotPetya attack, which caused billions of dollars in damage. Ransomware attacks can target any organization that stores valuable data, including healthcare organizations, financial institutions, and government agencies.

Evolve Security's penetration testing services help organizations identify the entry points and lateral movement paths that ransomware operators commonly exploit.