Ransomware is a type of malware that prevents or limits users from accessing their system, either by locking the system's screen or by locking the users' files unless a ransom is paid.
Ransomware malware can be spread through malicious e-mail attachments, infected software apps, infected external storage devices and compromised websites. In a lockscreen attack, the malware may change the victim’s login credentials for a computing device; in a data kidnapping attack, the malware may encrypt files on the infected device as well as other connected network devices.
How does it happen?
In most cases, clicking on the wrong link or downloading the wrong file or program, this encrypts your files using a private key that only the attacker possesses. It means attackers will hide a malicious code in the file and distribute it.
After attack happens The victim may receive a pop-up message or email warning that if the ransom is not paid by a certain date, the private key required to unlock the device or decrypt files will be destroyed.
These days ransomware doesn’t just effect desktop machines or laptops, it also targets mobile phones.
