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Ransomware
Ransomware is a type of malicious software designed to block access to a computer system or files until a sum of money is paid.
Attack Simulation
My Documents
Budget_2024.xlsx
Family_Photo.jpg
Contract_Final.pdf
Passwords.txt
Incoming Email: "URGENT_INVOICE.exe"
(Don't do this in real life!)
Interactive: Click "Download Attachment" to see how malware encrypts your files and locks you out.
Impact
- EncryptionThe malware uses strong encryption algorithms (like AES-256) to make files unreadable without a unique key.
- ExtortionAttackers demand payment (usually in cryptocurrency like Bitcoin) for the decryption key.
- ExfiltrationModern ransomware ("Double Extortion") also steals data before encrypting it, threatening to leak it if you don't pay.
Prevention & Defense
Offline BackupsThe most effective defense. If you can restore your data from a backup that the ransomware couldn't reach, you don't need to pay.
Email FilteringBlock malicious attachments and links before they reach the inbox.
Endpoint ProtectionUse modern antivirus/EDR solutions that can detect ransomware behavior (like mass file modification).