Ransomware is a type of malicious software designed to block access to a computer system until a sum of money is paid. It's a thriving new virus that offers hackers a simple, reliable revenue stream. Classic malware sits and waits in the dark corners of your system, hoping that you'll eventually type in personal details like a credit card number they can steal. However, ransomware isn't shy. Once it's on your system, it encrypts your files and holds your data hostage and loudly demands that you pay your attacker directly. The demand often looks something like this: