The Evolution of Ransomware: In-Depth Analysis of Threat Development and Modern Defense Mechanisms

Year : 2025 | Volume : 13 | Issue : 03 | Page : 35 43
    By

    Karishma Saini,

  • Rohit Kumar,

  1. Student, Department of Computer Applications, Echelon Institute of Technology, Faridabad, Haryana, India
  2. Student, Department of Computer Applications, Echelon Institute of Technology, Faridabad, Haryana, India

Abstract

Ransomware is the most severe of all cybersecurity threats the contemporary digital world is confronted with. It is a form of malware that encrypts a victim’s information and requests ransom, usually in cryptocurrency, for its decryption. From its first appearance in the late 1980s, ransomware grew from simple malware into very advanced and targeted attacks that can be used to bring down entire organizations, businesses and critical infrastructure. This study explores the evolution of ransomware in history, following its development and expanded interference into both private and public institutions. Contemporary ransomware operations frequently utilize strategies of ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS), double extortion, and software vulnerability exploits. Increased digital reliance and poor cybersecurity measures have left institutions more exposed. The study discusses the major prevention and response measures, such as frequent data backups, employee awareness training, endpoint security, and incident response planning. It also examines the function played by cryptocurrency in facilitating anonymous payment of ransoms and mentions actions taken by governments and cybersecurity professionals to counter the threat. The case studies of Indian and foreign major ransomware attacks are outlined to highlight the practical lessons and implications. Finally, the study emphasizes the importance of ongoing innovation, reforms, global collaboration, and strong cybersecurity policies to deal with the changing ransomware threat.

Keywords: Ransomware, cybersecurity, RaaS, phishing

[This article belongs to Journal Of Network security ]

How to cite this article:
Karishma Saini, Rohit Kumar. The Evolution of Ransomware: In-Depth Analysis of Threat Development and Modern Defense Mechanisms. Journal Of Network security. 2025; 13(03):35-43.
How to cite this URL:
Karishma Saini, Rohit Kumar. The Evolution of Ransomware: In-Depth Analysis of Threat Development and Modern Defense Mechanisms. Journal Of Network security. 2025; 13(03):35-43. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/jons/article=2025/view=227906


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Regular Issue Subscription Review Article
Volume 13
Issue 03
Received 28/06/2025
Accepted 18/07/2025
Published 17/09/2025
Publication Time 81 Days
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