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ransomware

[ ran-suhm-wair ]

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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Word History and Origins

Origin of ransomware1

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

It’s thought to be the second time in recent years that the company has been hit by ransomware.

Back in November, Capcom announced that personal data for up to 350,000 people may have been revealed by a "customized ransomware attack" on its systems.

If a ransomware attack disabled the operations of dozens of hospitals at this moment of maximum vulnerability, the impact would be profound.

From Fortune

Opportunistic criminals have also targeted stressed hospitals with ransomware attacks.

Earlier in October, facilities in Oregon, New York, Michigan, Wisconsin and California also fell prey to suspected ransomware attacks.

From Fortune

Ransomware “gangs” are successfully extorting $5 million a year, Symantec estimates.

Ransomware also can find people in other cyber back alleys, too: illegal music and movie downloaders are common targets.

Early ransomware attacks did attempt to live up to their name.

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