Introduction #
Every developer and security engineer eventually asks what is ransomware in cyber security and why it is still a major threat. In simple terms, what is ransomware means a type of malicious software that locks important data and asks for money to unlock it. Moreover, what is a ransomware attack today targets not only computers but also APIs, build servers, and CI/CD pipelines.
In fact, this kind of malware has turned into a supply-chain problem. Attackers use weak components or bad configurations to move across systems quickly. Therefore, knowing how it works is key for anyone protecting code, repositories, or cloud projects.
What Is Ransomware in Cyber Security #
What is a ransomware refers to harmful software that blocks access to files or systems until the victim pays. According to the FBI’s ransomware guide, it remains one of the most common cybercrimes worldwide.
Attackers usually use encryption to lock files, then demand cryptocurrency to release them. For example, a ransomware variant may enter through a bad dependency in a pipeline, encrypting source code and stopping development.
In other words, when teams ask what is ransomware in cyber security, the answer is simple: it is an online extortion attack that takes advantage of weak security practices and poor access control.
Key Characteristics / How It Works #
To understand what is a ransomware attack, developers should look at how this malware behaves:
- Entry point: it often arrives through phishing, fake files, or exposed automation tools.
- Encryption: it locks data using secret keys.
- Ransom note: a message appears asking for payment in crypto.
- Spread: it can move to other folders or shared spaces.
- Double threat: attackers may also steal and leak data.
Additionally, the NCSC notes that modern ransomware mixes data theft with blackmail. As a result, constant scanning and quick detection help stop damage early.rn ransomware combines encryption with data exfiltration. Consequently, continuous scanning and early detection are now crucial to prevent impact.
How Xygeni Helps Prevent Ransomware Attacks #
Xygeni helps companies find and stop these attacks before they reach production. Its All-in-One AppSec platform adds protection at every step of the software lifecycle:
- SAST: finds weak code paths that could let in ransomware.
- SCA: detects dependencies that contain dangerous files or scripts.
- Malware detection: checks open-source packages for hidden threats.
- Anomaly detection: tracks pipelines for strange encryption activity.
Furthermore, Xygeni’s Early Warning System alerts teams when new ransomware-like packages appear in public registries. Therefore, DevSecOps teams not only understand what is ransomware in cyber security, but also stop it early.
For further insight, read our Malware Detection in Software Supply Chain post. The CISA Stop Ransomware initiative also promotes these security steps.
Keeping Your Code Safe From Emerging Risks #
This kind of attack has grown from small infections to large campaigns that can stop entire development workflows. Understanding how they work helps developers find weak areas and fix them before they become serious problems.
When teams stay alert and use automated checks, recovery is faster, and downtime is shorter. Xygeni gives organizations that edge, bringing visibility, early alerts, and full protection for code, dependencies, and pipelines.
👉 Start your free trial and see how Xygeni helps you keep your development environment safe from data-locking attacks and other new risks.
