What is Ryuk Ransomware?

Ryuk ransomware attacks are a type of ransomware attack in which a malicious actor aims to render a target device/network's essential files inaccessible to its legitimate users so that the attacker can levy a ransom against the target. Once the essential files are corrupted, encrypted, or otherwise compromised, the victim is typically unable to regain access to these files on their own and are pressured to pay the demanded ransom amount, which is oftentimes hundreds of thousands of dollars per attack. Ryuk attacks are relatively common and regularly account for tens of millions of dollars' worth of damages each year.