What type of malware demands payment in exchange for decrypting compromised data?

Ransomware is a type of malware that specifically targets data by encrypting it and then demanding a ransom payment from the victim in exchange for restoring access. This process typically involves the attacker providing a decryption key only after a specified payment is made, often in cryptocurrencies to maintain anonymity.

The primary aim of ransomware is financial gain, making it significantly disruptive and damaging to individuals and organizations alike. It can infiltrate systems through phishing attacks, malicious downloads, or vulnerabilities, rendering files inaccessible and causing substantial operational and financial impacts until the ransom is addressed.

In contrast, other types of malware serve different purposes. For instance, Trojans may disguise themselves as legitimate software but do not inherently encrypt data to extort payments. Worms can replicate themselves across networks without needing user interaction or affecting data availability for ransom purposes. Adware primarily targets advertising and user data for monetization, rather than physically compromising and encrypting files.