How ransomware works?

Today, there are so many different ways that people can hack into your computer and steal important information. From sending users a virus that slows down the performance of your computer to attack a university’s campus systems, a hacker’s job is to be intrusive in any way possible. Therefore, it is very important that you learn as much as you can on topics like ransomware.

To get started, you need to know the definition of ransomware. Ransomware can be described as a type of malicious software that is designed to block access to an individual or an organization’s computer system. Blocking the software is intentional since it can only be removed after a certain sum of money is paid to the attacker. The intruders that use these tactics normally target an organization where they can make relatively large sums quickly without a lot of unnecessary hassles.

Whatever the case or situation that an organization is in, it is important that everyone knows exactly how ransomware actually works. Lately, there has been an outbreak of ransomware problems. This outbreak started in 2017 and has grown into larger-scale problems that begin to become the potential of highly profitable schemes. For instance, some of the more popular variants are as follows:

  • Ryuk
  • Maze
  • Revil (Sodinokibi)
  • Lock bit
  • DearCry
  • Lapsus$

All of which have their own unique characteristics of cyberattacks. In fact, here are the basics of how ransomware works today.

1. Infect and Distribute Vectors

To be successful, one of the first things that hackers do is to choose a target to gain access to. Once the target has been decided upon. The next step is to infect and distribute vectors. For instance, the hacker will send a malicious email to the person’s computer. These malicious emails are used to go phishing on someone’s computer. The person may even take control of the computer remotely and will make changes.

2. Data Encryption

Once the phishing program has Cyber Centaurs gained access to a computer, the next step is to start encrypting computer files. Or, it may delete any backups.

3. Ransom Demands Made

When encryption is complete, the demands for money can be made. The amount paid usually differs based on the organization and the people who are responsible for these attacks.

Conclusion

Just like the name implies, organizations impacted by these attacks will be asked to pay a ransom before they can gain access back to their computers and their computer databases. Recently, more ransomware attacks are being made so this has become the main concern in places all over the U.S. and abroad.

Vector illustration of a centaur businessman aiming a businessman riding a unicorn, metaphor for smaller companies aiming to become bigger company