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.

---

Etymology

Origin of ransomware

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

Example Sentences

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

From Salon • May 9, 2026

Most early ransomware originated in Russia, but not because it was all operated by the Russian mob or Russian security services.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 6, 2026

Moving forward, Hultquist is concerned that more aggressive and dangerous actors will mass exploitation campaigns involving ransomware and extortion.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 18, 2026

During the 2021 ransomware attack on JBS Foods, meat processing operations stopped even though animals, workers, and facilities were all in place.

From Science Daily • Apr. 5, 2026

Japanese beer giant Asahi said Thursday it was not negotiating with the hackers behind a "sophisticated and cunning" ransomware attack that is about to enter its third month.

From Barron's • Nov. 27, 2025