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

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

Most early ransomware originated in Russia, where young computer programmers lacked the opportunities of their peers in Silicon Valley.

From The Wall Street Journal ● May 6, 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

A month after Synapse collapsed, Evolve was hit by a ransomware attack that leaked the personal data of 7.6 million customers, according to a government report.

From MarketWatch ● Mar. 17, 2026