What type of malware encrypts files after installation on a computer? Learn how ransomware operates, its impact, and why it’s critical knowledge for the Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) Cybersecurity 100-160 exam.
Table of Contents
Question
An employee accidentally installs a malicious application that starts encrypting files on their computer. What type of malware is this?
A. Worm
B. Trojan
C. Ransomware
D. Spyware
E. Adware
Answer
C. Ransomware
Explanation
Ransomware encrypts files and demands payment to restore access.
Ransomware is a type of malicious software that, once installed on a system, encrypts the user’s files and demands payment (a ransom) to restore access to the data.
It typically spreads through deceptive downloads, malicious email attachments, or exploiting software vulnerabilities. After execution, ransomware uses strong encryption algorithms to lock files, making them inaccessible to the user.
Victims are presented with a ransom note, often demanding payment in cryptocurrency, with the promise (not guarantee) of a decryption key upon payment.
The primary goal of ransomware is financial extortion, and it is considered one of the most disruptive and costly forms of cyberattack in recent years.
Other malware types, such as worms, trojans, spyware, and adware, do not focus on file encryption and ransom demands as their main function.
Ransomware encrypts files on the victim’s computer and demands payment to restore access, making it a major threat in cybersecurity.
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