What is a ransomware attack?

A ransomware attack is characterized by its specific objective of encrypting the victim's files and demanding a ransom payment for the decryption key. This malicious software restricts access to the data or files, often rendering them completely unusable until the ransom is paid. The impact of such attacks can be severe, leading to significant financial losses, operational disruptions, and compromised data integrity for organizations.

The understanding of how ransomware operates is critical, especially in the context of IT security, as it highlights the importance of implementing robust cybersecurity measures to prevent such incidents. IT professionals must ensure regular data backups and emphasize employee training on recognizing suspicious activity to mitigate the risks associated with ransomware. This understanding plays a vital role in informing organizational policies and risk management strategies concerning data protection.