---
title: "What is Ransomware?"  
description: "What is Ransomware?"  
author: "Sandra Emily"  
published: 2022-05-04  
canonical: https://answers.mindstick.com/qa/97123/what-is-ransomware  
category: "troubleshooting"  
tags: ["troubleshooting", "networking", "network-security"]  
reading_time: 1 minute  

---

# What is Ransomware?

What is Ransomware?

## Answers

### Answer by Hitesh Vohra

- **Ransomware** is a type of [**virus**](https://answers.mindstick.com/qa/50030/do-i-have-to-run-anti-virus-on-a-mac) that uses encryption to hold a victim's data hostage. The vital data of a person or organisation is encrypted, making it impossible for them to access files, databases, or apps. Then a ransom is asked in order to gain access.
- Ransomware is frequently designed to propagate over a network and target database and file servers, paralysing a whole enterprise in the process. It's a growing menace that generates billions of dollars in payouts to hackers while causing considerable damage and costs to businesses and government agencies.

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**Read More: [How does Ransomware work?](https://answers.mindstick.com/qa/97124/how-does-ransomware-work)**


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Original Source: https://answers.mindstick.com/qa/97123/what-is-ransomware

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