Ransomware is a type of malicious software that encrypts your files until you pay a ransom.

A ransomware attack called WannaCry that was first launched on 12 May and since spread around the world impacted a number of high-profile organisations globally, including NHS England in the UK.

Ransomware is a type of malicious software that will block access to your files unless you pay a ransom.

Some 47 NHS trusts fell victim to these ransomware attacks resulting in devastating consequences for some patients, as operations were cancelled and medical records held for ransom.

One theory suggested that 90 percent of NHS trusts across the UK were using Microsoft’s 16-year-old OS Windows XP, which could leave them susceptible to attacks.

What is WannaCry ransomware?

WannaCry or Wanna Decryptor ransomware seems to have used a vulnerability in Microsoft’s software.

An exploit discovered and built upon by the USA’s National Security Agency called EternalBlue was leaked by a group called the Shadow Brokers earlier this year. It was patched by Microsoft at the time, but older versions of Windows or those without Windows Update were left open to attacks.

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