What is Ransomware?
Ransomware: Ransomware is malware that encrypts your files or locks your systems, then demands payment, usually in cryptocurrency, for the decryption key.
Ransomware Explained in Detail
Ransomware operators run like businesses now. They have affiliates, customer support, and service level agreements. Most attacks follow a pattern: they get in through phishing or an exposed remote desktop, move laterally across your network, steal sensitive data, encrypt everything, and threaten to publish the stolen files if you do not pay.
Common Kill Chain
- Initial access: Phishing email, exposed RDP, or unpatched vulnerability.
- Lateral movement: Attackers spread through your network and escalate privileges.
- Exfiltration: They steal data before encryption. This is double extortion.
- Encryption: Your files become unreadable and a ransom note appears.
- Extortion: They threaten to leak stolen data unless you pay.
What Actually Helps
Offline backups, network segmentation, endpoint detection and response, timely patching, and security awareness training for your staff.
How Hunto AI Helps with Ransomware
Explore the autonomous AI agents that address ransomware challenges.