ransomware

noun

ran·​som·​ware ˈran(t)-səm-ˌwer 

: malware that requires the victim to pay a ransom to access encrypted files

In September of 2013, security for small accounting offices changed forever with the appearance of a new class of threats called ransomware. … you open a file attached to an innocent-looking e-mail, and the program encrypts key files and drives so they cannot be accessed. The files are locked until you pay a ransom.

—Dave Mcclure

With ransomware, a hacker slips into a system, then puts encryption controls in place that locks users out. The hackers then demand money to "unlock" the data.

—Elizabeth Millard

Today's ransomware scammers often demand payment in bitcoin because the digital currency is easy to use, fast and provides a heightened anonymity for the scammers, according to the FBI warning.

—Susan Tompor

Examples of ransomware in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

For example, Change Healthcare, a division of UnitedHealth Group, was affected by a ransomware attack on Feb. 21 targeting billing and care authorization portals. —Sheryl Estrada, Fortune, 24 May 2024

Few providers were willing to publicly discuss the extent of the damage wrought by the ransomware attacks, across many states and medical departments. —Reed Abelson, New York Times, 23 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

2005, in the meaning defined above