Ransomware

Pronunciation: /ˈrænsəmˌwɛr/

Definitions of ransomware

noun a type of malicious software designed to block access to a computer system or data until a sum of money is paid

Example Sentences

A1 Ransomware is a type of malicious software.

A2 It is important to regularly update your antivirus software to protect against ransomware.

B1 Many companies have been targeted by ransomware attacks in recent years.

B2 Ransomware can encrypt your files and demand payment for their release.

C1 Cybersecurity experts recommend backing up your data to prevent data loss in case of a ransomware attack.

C2 Law enforcement agencies work to track down and apprehend those responsible for distributing ransomware.

Examples of ransomware in a Sentence

formal The company's computer systems were attacked by ransomware, causing a significant data breach.

informal My friend's laptop got infected with ransomware and now he can't access any of his files.

slang I heard that new ransomware is going around, so make sure to keep your antivirus software updated.

figurative Ransomware is like a digital hostage-taker, holding your data for ransom until you pay up.

Grammatical Forms of ransomware

• past tense: ransomwared
• plural: ransomwares
• comparative: more ransomware
• superlative: most ransomware
• present tense: ransomware
• future tense: will ransomware
• perfect tense: have ransomwared
• continuous tense: is ransomwaring
• singular: ransomware
• positive degree: ransomware
• infinitive: to ransomware
• gerund: ransomwaring
• participle: ransomwared

Origin and Evolution of ransomware

First Known Use: 1989 year

Language of Origin: English

Story behind the word: The term 'ransomware' originated from the combination of 'ransom' and 'malware', reflecting the malicious nature of the software that encrypts a victim's files and demands payment for decryption.

Evolution of the word: Originally used in the context of computer security to describe a type of malware that extorts money from victims, the term 'ransomware' has become more widely known and associated with cyber attacks targeting individuals and organizations worldwide.