Ransomware is defined as “a type of malicious software designed to block access to a computer system until a sum of money is paid.” There are many instances where the ransomware application leaks into an IT system via a malicious email, that is innocently opened by someone in the corporation. This, small ransomware code usually begins to encrypt data on all the machines it identifies on the network. This makes it impossible for the company to continue business as normal.

A ransom is demanded. However, in well run companies that have all of their software and data backups available there will be minimal damage. All the machines must be scrubbed and cleaned of the infection and the contents can be restored as required.