Niranjan Reddy Kotha

Abstract

Ransomware is a type of malicious software designed to encrypt the files of the victim, holding their data hostage until a ransom is paid. Over the past decade, ransomware attacks have evolved in terms of sophistication, targeting both individuals and large-scale organizations, including critical infrastructure systems. This paper explores the rise of ransomware, its changing methods of operation, and the growing threats it poses to cybersecurity. The study focuses on the evolution of ransomware techniques, from simple encryption to double-extortion tactics, and investigates the underlying factors that have enabled ransomware to become a global threat. Furthermore, the paper reviews various mitigation strategies, including technical, organizational, and policy-level approaches, aimed at reducing the risk and impact of ransomware attacks. By examining a case study of a prominent ransomware attack, we aim to understand the broader implications of these attacks on industries, e