Word of the Day: ransomware

Word of the Day Daily updates on the latest technology terms |May 15, 2017

ransomware Ransomware is malicious code that is used by cybercriminals to launch data kidnapping and lockscreen attacks. The motive for ransomware attacks is monetary, and unlike other types of security exploits, the victim is usually notified that an attack has occurred and is given instructions for how to recover data. Payment for recovery instructions is often demanded in virtual currency to protect the criminal's identity. Ransomware malware can be spread through malicious e-mail attachments, infected software apps, infected external storage devices and compromised websites. In a lockscreen attack, the malware may change the victim's login credentials for a computing device; in a data kidnapping attack, the malware may encrypt files on the infected device as well as files on other connected network devices. Ransomware kits on the dark web have allowed cybercriminals with little or no technical background to purchase inexpensive ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) programs and launch attacks with very little effort. Attackers may use one of several different approaches to extort digital currency from their victims. For example: The victim may receive a pop-up message or email warning that if the ransom is not paid by a certain date, the private key required to unlock the device or decrypt files will be destroyed. The victim may be duped into believing he is the subject of an official inquiry. After being informed that unlicensed software or illegal web content has been found on his computer, the victim is given instructions for how to pay an electronic fine. The attacker encrypts files on infected computed devices and makes money by selling a product that promises to help the victim unlock files and prevent future malware attacks. To protect against ransomware attacks and other types of cyberextortion, experts urge users to backup computing devices on a regular basis and update software -- including anti-virus software -- on a regular basis. End users should beware of clicking on links in emails from strangers or opening email attachments and victims should do all they can to avoid paying ransoms. While ransomware attacks may be nearly impossible to stop, there are important data protection measures individuals and organizations can take to insure that damage is minimal and recovery is a quick as possible. Strategies include compartmentalizing authentication systems and domains, keeping up-to-date storage snapshots outside the main storage pool and enforcing hard limits on who can access data and when access is permitted. Quote of the Day "Ransomware attacks happen, but the important thing is to minimize the impact and demonstrate a timely recovery." - Mike O. Villegas   Trending Terms cyberextortion cryptoperiod malware encryption doxware infosec   Learning Center Ransomware protection best served by backing up your data Good data storage practices and effective data backup are the best approaches when it comes to offering ransomware protection in your company. Ransomware threat continues to evolve, defense needs to catch up Ransomware threat abounds, but RSA Conference 2017 speakers say victims should avoid paying ransoms and weigh their options to access critical data. Why healthcare ransomware attacks are a growing threat to health IT Healthcare ransomware attacks plagued hospitals in 2016: experts predict the threat will rise in 2017 due to outdated systems and lax security practices. Five ways to prevent a ransomware infection through network security A ransomware infection can be stopped in its tracks by strong network security. Here are five simple steps enterprises can take to bolster their networks. Cheap ransomware as a service arrives for malicious actors The Karmen ransomware as a service offers a very low price and interesting features for the enterprising malicious actor. Writing for Business Ransomware hasn't been in the news for _______ but it seems to be making a comeback. a. a while b. awhile Answer       Stay In Touch For feedback about any of our definitions or to suggest a new definition, please contact me at: mrouse@techtarget.com   Visit the Word of the Day Archives and catch up on what you've missed!   FOLLOW US About This E-Newsletter This e-newsletter is published by the TechTarget network. To unsubscribe from Whatis.com, click here. Please note, this will not affect any other subscriptions you have signed up for. TechTarget, Whatis, 275 Grove Street, Newton, MA 02466. Contact: webmaster@techtarget.com Copyright 2016 TechTarget. All rights reserved.