What is ransomware?

Ransomware is fundamentally a type of malware that specifically targets users by encrypting their data or locking them out of their systems, then demanding payment, typically in cryptocurrency, to restore access. This malicious software can spread through phishing emails, malicious downloads, or vulnerabilities in software. The act of demanding payment is central to its operation, as it preys on the urgency and desperation of victims who may need access to their critical files, making it a significant and harmful threat in the cybersecurity landscape.

Understanding the nature of ransomware is crucial for individuals and organizations to develop effective defenses against it, including regular backups, user education, and adopting robust cybersecurity measures. The other options do not accurately describe ransomware; antivirus software is designed to prevent and mitigate malware infections, a cybersecurity framework provides guidelines for managing security risks, and methods of password recovery relate to recovering lost access rather than the extortion tactics associated with ransomware.