ransomware

ran·som·ware

R r

Definitions of ransomware word

noun ransomware malware planted illegally in a computer or mobile device that disables its operation or access to its data until the owner or operator pays to regain control or access. 2
noun Definition of ransomware in Technology (security) A kind of malware that encrypts files on your computer and then demands that you send the malware operator money in order to have the files decrypted. CryptoLocker was the best known example of ransomware. 0
uncountable noun ransomware Ransomware is illegal computer software that stops a computer from working or prevents the computer user from getting information until they have paid some money. -1
noun ransomware illegal computer software that disables a computer or blocks access to data until a payment is received 0

before 2005

One of the 1% newest English words

First recorded in 2005-10; ransom + -ware

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exclamation

A common word. It’s meaning is known to most children of preschool age. About 91% of English native speakers know the meaning and use the word.

This word is included in each student's vocabulary. Most likely there is at least one movie with this word in the title.