Global ransomware attacks—the impact and the response
Tuesday, May 16, 2017 - 09:32
in Mathematics & Economics
A global cyberattack unleashed Friday has reportedly affected more than 200,000 computers across more than 150 countries. The "ransomware," called "WannaCry," exploits a vulnerability in the Windows operating system. The attacks hit companies and governments, encrypting users' computers and demanding bitcoin payments in exchange for unlocking the files. Asia was hit particularly hard Monday, because many businesses there had closed when the attack first struck on Friday.