RANSOMWARE Definition & Meaning

ransomware

[ ran-suhm-wair ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

Digital Technology.

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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�y��vlog History and Origins

Origin of ransomware¹

First recorded in 2005–10; ransom ( def ) + -ware ( def )

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

One of the best examples is ransomware, malicious software that prevents users from accessing their computer files, systems or networks unless they pay a ransom.

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Trump seemed to be giving Putin "a free pass as Russia continues to launch cyberoperations and ransomware attacks against critical American infrastructure", Schumer added.

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Three years before, Russian ransomware attackers shut down the Irish health system's entire computer network, and published 520 people's medical records online.

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A school in Cheshire has announced a temporary closure after falling victim to a "ransomware attack".

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In January 2021 a criminal group posted personal details of council staff and residents on the dark web following a ransomware attack three months earlier.

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