Ramsonware: Holding your Data Hostage

In the recent years ransomware has become one of the most popular malware used by criminals. This particular type of malware is notorious for locking users' data or systems and unscrambling it only after the victims pay a fee. With more and more individuals, companies and public agencies being targeted and the ransom being as high as $17,000, the need for countermeasures against this kind of malware is greater than ever. This paper explores how the malware infects and encrypts its victims. Then, it suggests mitigation techniques based on how the ransomware spreads, making special emphasis on countermeasures in order to protect end-users.