The term ransomware will leave most people flabbergasted. How can software hold something ransom or is technology becoming so clever it can take over anything?

However, this description isn’t as far-fetched as it seems. Ransomware forms part of a group of malicious computer software called malware,  which cunningly installs itself on your pc and then has t he audacity to demand data or money from you. This type of programme can be installed by means of an e-mail attachment, an infected programme or unsafe website with malware installed on it. Ransomware” is also known as a a cryptovirus, cryptotrojan or cryptoworm.

The software indeed “kidnaps” your data by encrypting or limiting your access to it and then sending you a message demanding money to regain your access.  The only way access is possible again, is by acquiring an encryption key from the creator of the ransomware at a fee.

A more recent version of the software will not notify the user that ransomware has been installed, but will merely block all access to the data and depend on the victim to search the internet for information on their “problem”. This search will then lead them to legit websites selling software to remove the ransomware, which of course is sold by the creator of the original culprit.

Ransomware is nothing new. In 1996 security experts at Columbia University and IBM wrote an essay called “Cryptovirology: Extortion-Based Security Threats and Countermeasures” to describe the software. At that time businesses were the main targets of ransomware and not individuals.

In March 2006 ransomware called Crypzip of Zippo was sent to a group of internet users. Those who received the programme also received an e-mail demanding a ransom of $300 if they wanted to access their data again.

Most antivirus vendors have ways of detecting and blocking the most known ransomware. However, no data is 100% safe. To ensure you don’t find yourself in this tricky situation, try to back up data regularly, be cautious when browsing the internet and under no circumstances open e-mail attachments from unknown sources.

More info on the latest ransomware targeting Skype users.

SOURCE: Wikipedia, Microsoft en Techtarget.