Question

Connie opened a link that she received in an email. It led to a webpage that congratulated her on winning $1 million. The webpage instructed her to follow a few steps after which she found her laptop functioning erratically. Connie had restricted access to her own folders and the data was encrypted. She was asked to pay for an access key to release them. What kind of malware attack is this?

Answer 1

Answer:

This kind of malware attack is known as ransomware.

Explanation:

-Ransomware is a type of malicious software that typically involves encrypting the files of a victim's PC, laptop or systems. The hacker(s) This essentially denies the victim any access to their data.They then demands payment in order to allow the victim access to their own data. The payment is always required to be transferred in crypto-currency to the hackers.

-Examples of ransomware includes Reveton, CryptoLocker, CryptoWall and the infamous Wannacry which attacked many victims PC across the globe in 2017. Ransomware attacks can be initiated by a user unknowingly visits an infected website.The malware then self downloads and installs itself onto the user’s PC without their knowledge.

-Ransomware attacks can be prevented by using advanced antivirus.