Malicious software that locks or encrypts files on a device; the name combines the words “ransom” and “software”.
Definition after the Knowledge Base on the Gov.pl portal. One example is the WannaCry attack mentioned in Council Decision (CFSP) 2020/1127.1,2
Sources
- Gov.pl portal, Knowledge Base, Ransomware – one of the most serious threats in cyberspace, 24.10.2022 (in Polish)
- Council of the European Union, Council Decision (CFSP) 2020/1127 of 30 July 2020 (sanctions for cyber-attacks), recitals and annex
Checked: 3 November 2026