After clicking on a link in an email, an employee's computer becomes infected with malware that encrypts files and demands payment for their release. This incident is an example of a ____________ attack.

A ransomware attack involves the encryption of files on a victim's computer, rendering them inaccessible. Attackers then demand payment (usually in cryptocurrency) for the decryption key. Understanding the characteristics of ransomware attacks is crucial for implementing robust cybersecurity measures to prevent, detect, and respond to such incidents and protect sensitive data from unauthorized encryption.__________________________________________________