CyberEthics 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Ransomware is classified as a type of malicious software (malware) that targets individuals or organizations by encrypting their data or locking them out of their systems. The attackers then demand payment, often in cryptocurrency, to provide the decryption key or to restore access to the affected data and systems. This payment demand is the hallmark of ransomware, as it relies on coercing the victim into paying to regain control over their own data.

Understanding the nature of ransomware is crucial for cybersecurity awareness, as it highlights the risks and consequences of cyber threats. Unlike authorized software, which is intended to perform legitimate functions without harmful effects, ransomware operates with malicious intent, aiming to exploit vulnerabilities for financial gain. It also stands apart from security measures, which are designed specifically to protect data and systems, and from tools aimed at enhancing system performance, as those have entirely different objectives unrelated to malicious activities.