Ransomware: A primer, suggested deterrence and a systems thinking approach

Abstract

This paper focuses on trends in ransomware attacks and proposes that systems thinking is a useful approach to thwart these attacks. Ransomware attacks are a form of malware involving a breach in a company's data and holding it hostage for a price or "ransom." The popularization of cryptocurrencies and an increase in remote working have facilitated a greater incidence of ransomware attacks. Ransomware has resulted in companies investing in training, information sharing, and in further government intervention as means of prevention against ransomware. This paper identifies ransomware prevention and detections, suggesting the potential for systems thinking to further augment these methods. A systems thinking approach could provide a useful framework for analyzing information effectively within organizations and its relationship to external systems.