Ransomware Attack: An Evolving Targeted Threat

Ransomware typically locks the system to prevent users from accessing their own system or personal files. Only after receiving ransom demand by the attacker, the access is regranted to the user, without which data is permanently lost or, in some cases, made publicly available. In recent years there has been an exponential rise in number of ransomware cases. The attackers have evolved their techniques of attack and have become targeted in their attacks. The objective of this paper is to furnish an exhaustive understanding of ransomware’s threat, present current trends, discuss current detecting techniques explored and summarize major ransomware groups active in recent years. Lastly, probable attack vectors, preventive measures and steps to respond in case of ransomware attack are discussed.