How is ransomware typically defined?

Ransomware is typically defined as a type of malware that blocks access to files, making it inaccessible to the user until a ransom is paid to the attacker. This form of malware often encrypts the victim's files, leading to a situation where the user cannot retrieve their important data without paying for a decryption key. The definition highlights the malicious intent behind ransomware, as it not only aims to lock users out of their own data but also exploits the urgency and fear associated with losing critical information to coerce victims into paying the ransom.

The focus of ransomware is on restricting access to files, which differentiates it from other types of malware or cybersecurity tools. Other options suggest methods or tools unrelated to the primary functioning of ransomware. For example, monitoring network traffic relates to network security practices instead, while data encryption without recovery does not capture the ransom-driven nature of ransomware. Lastly, a tool for securing data backups is an entirely different category, focusing on prevention strategies rather than the attack method itself. Thus, the definition that frames ransomware as malware that blocks access to files is accurate and succinct, clarifying its operational mechanism.