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 Deputy national security adviser Anne Neuberger said in December that attacks by Iranian hackers — as well as a separate spate of ransomware attacks on the health care industry — should be seen as a call to action by utilities and industry to tighten cybersecurity. —

Ken Miller, Fortune, 18 Apr. 2024 The company was originally targeted by a ransomware gang known as AlphV in February. —

Andy Greenberg Andrew Couts, WIRED, 13 Apr. 2024 See all Example Sentences for ransomware

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'ransomware.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.