R is for Ransomware

Image: Aptly describing what Ransomware is. Source: https://securityintelligence.com/ransomware-101-what-is-ransomware-and-how-can-you-protect-your-business/

https://www.zdnet.com/article/fbi-warning-ransomware-gangs-are-going-after-this-lucrative-but-unexpected-target/?ftag=TRE-03-10aaa6b&bhid=%7B%24external_id%7D&mid=%7B%24MESSAGE_ID%7D&cid=%7B%24contact_id%7D&eh=%7B%24CF_emailHash%7D

This is the latest Ransomware attack.

For a few letters, I have been in dilemma, which one to choose and which one to ignore. In this case, as well, there was confusion – Should I write on Robotics, or should I pick up Ransomware. But then, I realized that S is for Security, so let me build-up for that blog tomorrow.

And so, now, I will be talking about ransomware. Have you heard the term Ransomware?  

You must have heard the term Ransom, though?

Yes, to both, great. And for those who haven’t, worry not, as I am here to share my little bit of knowledge on the term. But before we head on to ransomware, let’s understand what ransom is first, and then I will move on to ransomware.

Ransom as defined in a dictionary is a sum of money demanded or paid for the release of a captive.

Keeping that in mind, here’s what Ransomware is.

Ransomware is a type of malware that is designed to deny anyone from accessing the files on their computer. It can be an individual or an organization that can be a victim to the attack.

How does Ransomware deny access?

It does that by encrypting the files. In simple words, the hackers convert the information or data into codes (in this case malicious codes) so that the users are not able to access it.

Now, for the user to access those files and to get the decryption key, they must pay a ransom. Hackers, or cybercriminals puts the organizations or an individual in a place with no other choice but to pay the ransom is both cheapest as well as easiest way to access their encrypted files.

While this is the basics of ransomware, experts say that there are some variants that have additional functionality for data theft as well. This is to offer more incentive for the victims to loosen their pockets and pay the ransom.

Ransomware has quickly become the most prominent and visible type of malware. Recent ransomware attacks have impacted hospitals’ ability to provide crucial services, crippled public services in cities, and caused significant damage to various organizations.