<aside> đź’ˇ Ransomware is a type of malicious software that encrypts the files of infected hosts and frightens to limit access to data and demand payments from victims. This page aims to educate readers on the importance of ransomware and will include the history and adaption of ransomware attacks, the two main types of ransomware, ransom prices and payment including statistics that looks into how profitable ransomware attacks are, the modus operandi of a ransomware attack as well as explore in ransomware attack prevention.
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Ransomware is a type of malicious software that encrypts the files of infected hosts and threatens to publish or limit access to data in order to demand payments from victims. The attacker encrypts victims’ data by using a strong encryption algorithm and holds the key to decrypting the files until the victim pays the ransom; therefore, the demand typically also includes a deadline. If the victim fails to make the payment on time, the data is permanently lost, the ransom price increases, or they will release your data online. Ransomware prominently displays lurid messages and uses shock and fear to pressure the victim into paying the ransom; thus, ransomware is also considered as “scareware.”
Ransomware is typically classified into two main types, crypto ransomware and locker ransomware.
Crypto ransomware is when attackers encrypt your important files such as documents, pictures and videos and make the content inaccessible instead of interfering with basic computer functions. Attackers demand a ransom usually in the form of Bitcoins or other untraceable methods in exchange for the decryption key.
Locker ransomware disables fundamental computer operations and completely locks victims out of their device, encrypting their files and blocking applications until a ransom is paid. As locker ransomware does not encrypt files and target critical files, it locks you out and destruction of your data is therefore unlikely.
There are several ways for attackers to access one’s computer. The most common way is phishing spam which involves sending phony emails to mislead users into sharing personal data and grant the cybercriminals administrator access. Cybercriminals could create email messages utilizing social engineering techniques, the psychological manipulation that allows cybercriminals to exploit individuals to infect their devices and reveal confidential information. Victims will receive emails that masquerade as trustworthy when in reality, these attachments are crypto ransomware executable programs.
Ransomware has evolved from a rogue floppy disc demanding $189 in ransom to a trillion-dollar industry that features advanced techniques and has harmed big-name victims. The following timeline lists the most significant ransomware attacks from the past 30 years. To learn more about each attack, please click on the corresponding board.