---
title: "Ransomware: Definition, Mechanics & Policy | Model Diplomat"
description: "Ransomware is malicious software that encrypts data and demands cryptocurrency for access, posing significant threats to individuals and organizations alike."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/ransomware"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- Ransomware is malicious software that encrypts a victim's data or locks systems and demands payment, usually in cryptocurrency, to restore access.
- Should a victim organisation pay the ransom?
- What is double extortion ransomware?
- What are India's legal and reporting obligations after a ransomware attack?
- How does ransomware differ from a wiper like NotPetya?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

Ransomware is malicious software that encrypts a victim's data or locks systems and demands payment, usually in cryptocurrency, to restore access.

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## Timeline

1. 28 April 2022

   In India, the principal legal authorities engaged are the Information Technology Act, 2000 (notably Sections 43, 66, and 70 on protected systems), the Indian…

2. 12 May 2017

   The WannaCry worm of exploited the EternalBlue SMB vulnerability and crippled over 200,000 systems across 150 countries, including the United Kingdom's Nati…

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Example

In November 2022, ransomware crippled the servers of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi for nearly two weeks, prompting investigation by CERT-In, the Delhi Police, and the National Investigation Agency.

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