Influences on ransomware’s evolution and predictions for the future challenges

Abstract

The inception of malware disguised as a solution to fix a problem to the current sophisticated malware demanding huge money, ransomware has attained significant proliferation through various advancements in information technologies. As a result of this development, cybercriminals have become adept and highly successful in compromising advanced information systems. Computer and network systems infected with ransomware are also often infected with various forms of malicious software. Ransomware targets have become more educated, aware and cautious of malware, motivating cybercriminals to respond with innovative attacks. In this paper, we analyse the evolution of ransomware from the perspective of what makes an individual or an organisation susceptible to the succumbing demands of ransomware. Finally, we conclude with few suggestions about the predictions of future trends of ransomware.