WannaCry Ransomware, in simple terms, is a type of malicious software that infects computer systems, encrypts their files, and demands a ransom for the decryption key. 

It’s a type of malware, which is like a digital virus that can infect a computer system without the user’s consent.

WannaCry is software designed to harm and extort money in Bitcoin.

Once it infects a computer, WannaCry encrypts (locks) the files on that computer.

This encryption makes the files unreadable and inaccessible to the computer’s owner.

After encrypting the files, WannaCry displays a message on the infected computer’s screen.

It informs the user that their files are locked and can only be unlocked by ransom.

The ransom demanded by WannaCry was specifically in Bitcoin, a cryptocurrency.

Origin

In May 2017, WannaCry created a global crisis by spreading rapidly to computers worldwide.

It affected not just individual users but also organizations, businesses, and government agencies.

The scale of its impact was unprecedented.

The WannaCry incident highlighted concerns about using cryptocurrencies for illegal activities.

While cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin offer benefits such as security and borderless transactions, they can also be exploited by malicious actors for ransom payments and other illicit purposes.

WannaCry exploited a vulnerability in older and unpatched versions of Microsoft Windows operating systems.

It propagated from one computer to another through a flaw in the operating system’s security.

Bitcoin was chosen as the ransom payment method because it offers a degree of anonymity and is difficult to trace.

This allows cybercriminals to receive payments without easily being identified.

Using ransomware, including WannaCry, is illegal and unethical.

It’s a form of cybercrime that preys on victims’ desperation to regain access to their files.

Many victims faced a difficult decision – whether to pay the ransom to unlock their files or risk losing valuable data.

Paying the ransom is not a guarantee that the hackers will provide the decryption key or that it will work.

Prevention and Recovery

To protect against ransomware attacks like WannaCry, it’s crucial to keep operating systems and software updated with security patches.

Regularly backing up files is also essential.

This ensures that, in case of an attack, you can recover your data without paying a ransom.

In summary, WannaCry Ransomware is a malicious program that infects computers, encrypts their files, and demands a ransom in Bitcoin for decryption.

It’s a form of cyberattack that has widespread implications for both cybersecurity and the perception of cryptocurrencies.

Preventing such attacks through regular updates and backups remains essential in the digital age.