The type of software that infects a machine, locks the files, and then demands money (usually in the form of cryptocurrency) for their release is known as ransomware. Ransomware is a form of malicious software that encrypts the victim’s files or locks them out of their system, effectively holding the data hostage until a ransom is paid.
Key Features of Ransomware
Encryption: Ransomware encrypts files on the victim’s machine, making them inaccessible without a decryption key.
Ransom Demand: It typically displays a ransom note informing the victim of the encryption and demanding payment in exchange for the decryption key.
Payment Methods: Ransom payments are usually requested in cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, making transactions harder to trace.
Spreading Mechanisms: Ransomware can spread through phishing emails, malicious attachments, drive-by downloads, and exploiting vulnerabilities in software.
You can learn more from the following resources
What is Ransomware by Microsoft
Responding to Post-Intrusion Ransomeware with Cortex Coursera
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