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

This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. —Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 4 Oct. 2025

In this case, the ransomware spread to the Asahi Group's servers, prompting the company to shut down its IT operations to contain the threat. —Senior Reporter, PC Magazine, 3 Oct. 2025

Multiple European airports were hit with a cyber-attack last month using ransomware, according to the European Union’s cybersecurity agency, ENISA. —Ellie Cook, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Oct. 2025

These kinds of sweeping outages are typically the result either of ransomware attacks, where online extortionists paralyse corporate networks in the hope of payment, or deliberate sabotage. —Reuters, NBC news, 20 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

2005, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for ransomware

• aftercare
• anywhere
• billionaire
• chinaware
• debonair
• dinnerware
• disrepair
• doctrinaire
• earthenware
• everywhere
• frigidaire
• kitchenware