Ransomware is a malware that block access to a computer system or encrypt files until a ransom is paid.
It is a growing threat to cybersecurity, with cybercriminals using this malicious software to extort money from individuals and businesses. In this blog, we will take a closer look at the different types of ransomware and how they operate.
Types of Ransomware
- Crypto/Encrypting Ransomware
Crypto ransomware is the most common type of ransomware. It encrypts files on the victim’s computer, making them inaccessible until the ransom is paid. Crypto ransomware is typically distributed through phishing emails, malicious websites, or infected software downloads.
Once the files are encrypted, the victim will receive a message from the attacker demanding payment in exchange for the decryption key. In some cases, the attackers may even threaten to delete the encrypted files if the ransom is not paid.
- Locker Ransomware
Locker ransomware, also known as screen-locking ransomware, locks the victim’s computer screen or system, preventing them from accessing their files or using their device. Locker ransomware is often distributed through exploit kits or malicious websites.
Once the victim’s computer system is locked, they will receive a message from the attacker demanding payment in exchange for unlocking the system. Locker ransomware is not as common as crypto ransomware, but it can still cause significant damage to individuals and businesses.
- Scareware
Scareware is a type of ransomware that uses scare tactics to trick victims into paying a ransom. Scareware displays fake messages or pop-ups claiming that the victim’s computer is infected with malware, and that they need to pay to remove the infection.
Scareware is typically distributed through malicious websites or infected software downloads. Scareware is not as sophisticated as other types of ransomware, but it can still trick unsuspecting victims into paying a ransom.
- Doxware
Doxware is a type of ransomware that threatens to publish the victim’s sensitive or personal information if the ransom is not paid. Doxware is typically distributed through phishing emails or malicious websites.
Once the victim’s personal information is stolen, the attacker will demand payment in exchange for not publishing the information. Doxware is a relatively new type of ransomware, but it is becoming more prevalent as cybercriminals seek new ways to extort money from their victims.
- Master Boot Record (MBR) Ransomware
MBR ransomware attacks target the Master Boot Record of a victim’s computer, which is responsible for booting the operating system. By infecting the MBR, the ransomware prevents the victim’s system from booting up, rendering it unusable until a ransom is paid.
- Mobile Ransomware
Mobile ransomware targets mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets, and typically operates by locking the device or encrypting its files. Mobile ransomware may also threaten to publish or delete the victim’s personal data unless a ransom is paid.
- DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) Ransomware
DDoS ransomware aims to overwhelm a victim’s website or online service with a flood of traffic, causing it to go offline and disrupting business operations. The ransomware demands payment to stop the DDoS attack and restore normal access to the website or service.
- Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS)
RaaS is a type of ransomware attack where cybercriminals offer ransomware as a service to other individuals or groups, often in exchange for a share of the ransom payments. This allows even non-technical criminals to launch ransomware attacks, making it a growing threat.
These are just some of the common types of ransomware attacks. It’s important to note that ransomware attacks are constantly evolving, and new variants and techniques may emerge over time. Staying vigilant, implementing robust security measures, and regularly backing up data are critical to protect against ransomware attack
Ransomware is a growing threat to cybersecurity, and it is important for individuals and businesses to be aware of the different types of ransomware and how they operate. Crypto ransomware, locker ransomware, scareware, and doxware are the most common types of ransomware, each with their own method of infecting systems and extorting money
To protect yourself from ransomware, it is important to keep your software up to date, use antivirus and anti-malware software, backup your files regularly, be cautious of emails and attachments, use a reputable email filtering service, and educate yourself and your employees about ransomware and how to avoid it.
