My Journey into Cybersecurity: What I Learned About Ransomware After Hearing It on the News

I didn’t expect watching the news one evening would lead me to explore cybersecurity, but that’s precisely what happened. The report was about a ransomware attack, and while I’d heard the term before, I realized I didn’t fully understand what ransomware meant or just how devastating it could be. That night, I decided to dig in and learn more about it. As I wrap up my first module on ransomware, I’m excited to share what I’ve learned—not to teach but to bring you along on my journey as a learner.

Why Ransomware Matters to Everyone

Ransomware is unlike some of the abstract cybersecurity threats we often hear about. It’s malware that encrypts data, holding it hostage until the victim pays a ransom to regain access. The real-world consequences make ransomware immediately understandable and urgent. Think about a hospital under attack, suddenly unable to access patient records, or a school losing years of student data. These scenarios don’t just impact computers—they impact lives. And that’s why ransomware has become one of the most talked-about threats in cybersecurity.

What Surprised Me Most About Ransomware

In my first module on ransomware, I discovered a few facts that stopped me in my tracks. Here are two that stuck with me:

1. Critical Infrastructure is Often the Target: Healthcare facilities, government agencies, and schools are prime targets. I learned that ransomware attackers often target these institutions because they’re more likely to pay up—they have critical information that can’t stay locked up for long. For example, not having access to patient records in a hospital could be life-threatening. This makes ransomware not just a cybersecurity issue but a public safety concern.
2. The Rise of Ransom Payments: In many cases, organizations feel they have no option but to pay the ransom, ranging from thousands to millions of dollars. This decision comes with its risks, as paying doesn’t always guarantee data recovery, and it can also make organizations bigger targets for future attacks. Still, the urgency to restore access often leads them to take the chance. I found this part of ransomware compelling because it shows how attackers exploit the need for immediate data access.

Why This Topic Matters to Me

I’m a marketer by trade, and cybersecurity wasn’t on my radar until recently. However, as I learned more about it, I realized how interconnected cybersecurity is with every industry. We all work with data—our own, our customers’, and our colleagues'—and securing that data isn’t just a technical responsibility; it’s an ethical one. Understanding ransomware is a first step toward grasping the bigger picture of data protection.

What’s Next in My Cybersecurity Journey

This module on ransomware has given me a foundational understanding and opened up so many more questions. I’m excited to explore topics like how ransomware attacks are executed, what preventative measures companies can take, and how everyday individuals can prevent cyberattacks. The goal isn’t to become an expert overnight but to learn something new each day and share that learning.

Final Thoughts: Join Me on This Journey

If you’re new to cybersecurity or curious about these threats, I’d love for you to follow along. Each week, I’ll share something new that I’ve learned in my journey, from insights on different types of cyber threats to practical ways we can all help create a safer digital world.

Have you encountered ransomware stories or other cybersecurity concerns in your life or career? Let’s discuss them in the comments—I’m eager to hear your experiences and thoughts!