Which term is malware blocking access to data for ransom payments?

• A. Malware
• B. Encryption
• C. Pig Butchering
• D. Ransomware

Answer: (D)

Ransomware is the type of malicious software designed to block access to data and demand payment to restore it. This directly describes the scenario of data being inaccessible until a ransom is paid. While general malware covers many harmful functions, the distinctive goal here is holding data hostage for money. Encryption is a common method used by this malware to lock files, but it’s the act of blocking access for a ransom that defines the threat, not encryption alone. Pig butchering is a different kind of scam focused on tricking victims out of money through social engineering, not on denying data access.