Ransomware is a form of malware that
hijacks the user’s computer and restricts access to most parts of it. For the restriction to be removed, the user must pay the malware creator a ransom. The malware might encrypt all the files on the computer, making them unaccessible, or simply lock down the computer and display annoying messages. Many times, ransomware will display official-looking messages claiming to be from law enforcement authorities to frighten the user into paying. In the past, hackers demanded payment vouchers such as MoneyPak, but Bitcoin has become a much more attractive alternative since it is virtually