home/dictionary/Ransomware

Ransomware

nouncandidate·updated May 9, 2026

A type of malware that is a form of extortion. It works by encrypting a victim's hard drive denying them access to key files. The victim must then pay a ransom to decrypt the files and gain access to them again.

Framework senses

SANS Glossary of Security Terms1 senseview framework →
§1
A type of malware that is a form of extortion. It works by encrypting a victim's hard drive denying them access to key files. The victim must then pay a ransom to decrypt the files and gain access to them again.