In short
Malware encrypts, locks or disrupts systems and the attacker demands payment The objective is typically to extort money after compromising systems/data, with no guarantee of recovery.
What it is
The attacker claims payment is required to restore access, decrypt files or prevent further harm. The victim is then pushed to pay a ransom, often under time pressure.
How it starts
Malware encrypts, locks or disrupts systems and the attacker demands payment.
What they tell you
The attacker claims payment is required to restore access, decrypt files or prevent further harm
What they want you to do
Pay a ransom, often under time pressure
How you lose money
extort money after compromising systems/data, with no guarantee of recovery
What happens next
After the first successful step, the fraudster may demand more money/information, deepen account or device access, or disappear.
Warning signs
fear | urgency | coercion | ransomware | malware | encryption
Where this is documented
India — officially documented by an Indian authority/regulator
How to avoid it
Do not pay solely because of threats; preserve evidence, secure affected accounts/devices and report the incident promptly to law enforcement/cybercrime channels.
If it already happened
Contact the bank/payment provider immediately if money moved; report financial cyber fraud promptly via 1930 and cybercrime.gov.in; preserve messages, transaction IDs, phone numbers and URLs.