The name ransomware comes from two words: ransom and software. It blocks access to certain files or the entire system, usually by encrypting them. The criminals then demand a ransom to decrypt the data (or otherwise give control back to the user).
The simplest types of ransomware are relatively easy to neutralize by removing the “lock” from the system. However, ransomware that encrypts files using strong algorithms is beginning to take a larger and larger share of the market. It is virtually impossible to decrypt such data at home, so many people agree to pay the ransom.
However, it should be remembered that criminals do not always fulfill their part of the “deal” even after receiving the ransom, so it is very important to make backups.