ransomware

American  

[ran-suhm-wair] / ˈræn səmˌwɛər /

noun

Digital Technology.

1. malware planted illegally in a computer or mobile device that disables its operation or access to its data until the owner or operator pays to regain control or access.

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Etymology

Origin of ransomware

First recorded in 2005–10; ransom ( def. ) + -ware ( def. )

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

ransomware

There has been no painful attack like the ransomware we saw knock out M&S and JLR in 2025.

From BBC ● Oct. 22, 2026

Don’t let a ransomware attack bankrupt your company.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 9, 2026

Disruptions can come out of the blue: a ransomware attack crippled one Treasury dealer in 2023.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 17, 2026

A ransomware company and cybercriminal group called ShinyHunters claimed responsibility for the attack.

From Salon ● May 9, 2026

Demand for its products is growing due to the rise of both AI ransomware and AI data centers, Powell said.

From Barron's ● May 7, 2026

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