Ransomware, like other malware, evolves with time. The techniques of infection will always change with changes in technology, security enhancements, and the psychology of people. Most of the techniques explained in this chapter are explained in the context of the Windows operating system. But, similar techniques are used for other platforms such as Android, Linux, and Mac. At present, most ransomware is meant for Windows. The reason could be the user base of Windows is quite high. Android is already a target, as the number of Android smartphone users is growing day by day and is continuing its onward march. Android users need to be extremely cautious about how they download apps. Most Mac users are corporate executives. So there could be a rise in infection techniques in Macs sometime soon. So, this chapter was all about introducing the different kinds of ransomware and ways to prevent and remove them.

In the next chapter, we will discuss payment mechanisms used by ransomware. The chapter will show the entire life cycle of extortion, starting from victim paying the ransom to the criminals receiving the money.