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. )

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

ransomware

Don’t let a ransomware attack bankrupt your company.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 9, 2026

Last year, Anthropic said that AI was being used for ransomware, to analyze stolen data and to create fake identities for fraud.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 12, 2026

The federal task force typically briefs Congress on upcoming threats and engages with state and local leaders to game out scenarios ranging from ransomware to critical infrastructure attacks on Election Day.

From Salon ● May 21, 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

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

From MarketWatch ● Apr. 18, 2026