ransomware

noun

ran·​som·​ware ˈran(t)-səm-ˌwer 

: malware that requires the victim to pay a ransom to access encrypted files

In September of 2013, security for small accounting offices changed forever with the appearance of a new class of threats called ransomware. … you open a file attached to an innocent-looking e-mail, and the program encrypts key files and drives so they cannot be accessed. The files are locked until you pay a ransom.

—Dave Mcclure

With ransomware, a hacker slips into a system, then puts encryption controls in place that locks users out. The hackers then demand money to "unlock" the data.

—Elizabeth Millard

Today's ransomware scammers often demand payment in bitcoin because the digital currency is easy to use, fast and provides a heightened anonymity for the scammers, according to the FBI warning.

—Susan Tompor

Examples of ransomware in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Among the subjects covered are ransomware, DDoS attacks, quantum technology, healthcare breaches, artificial intelligence and AI agents, and cybersecurity for space assets. —Chuck Brooks, Forbes.com, 5 Apr. 2025

Regularly back up critical data to secure, offline locations that ransomware cannot access. —Kurt Knutsson, Cyberguy Report, FOXNews.com, 2 Apr. 2025

Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac also earned perfect scores from two labs and includes ransomware protection. —PCMAG, 17 Mar. 2025

The filing also details the impact of a ransomware attack in April 2023, which led to regulatory inquiries and class action lawsuits, with a settlement agreement for $7.5 million pending final court approval. —Quartz Intelligence Newsroom, Quartz, 17 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

2005, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for ransomware

• aftercare
• anywhere
• billionaire
• chinaware
• debonair
• dinnerware
• disrepair
• doctrinaire
• earthenware
• everywhere
• frigidaire
• kitchenware