⌨️ap computer science principles review

Ransomware

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examWritten by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

Ransomware is a type of malicious software that encrypts files on a computer or network, making them inaccessible until a ransom is paid to the attacker.