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Cybersecurity glossary

What is ransomware?

Definition

Ransomware is malware that encrypts or steals data and demands payment to restore access or prevent publication.

Why it matters

Modern attacks are often run by groups who break in days earlier, steal data, then encrypt systems. Prevention relies on MFA for remote access, rapid patching of exploited flaws, least privilege and offline or immutable backups.

Common questions about ransomware

Sources