Which of the following is a common type of malware that encrypts a user’s files?

Ransomware is a common type of malware specifically designed to encrypt a user’s files, rendering them inaccessible until a ransom is paid. This type of attack exploits the victim's data by holding it hostage, which creates a critical situation for individuals or organizations that rely on that data for their operations.

The encryption process typically involves the malware scanning the system for files that match specific extensions or types, encrypting them, and then displaying a ransom note that instructs the victim on how to pay for decryption. The most significant impact of ransomware lies in its potential to disrupt business operations, lead to data loss, and cause financial strain on victims who may need to decide whether to pay the ransom or lose their data permanently.

Other forms of malware, like Trojan horses, keyloggers, and spyware, have different functionalities. Trojan horses can disguise themselves as legitimate software but do not focus on encrypting data as their main function. Keyloggers are designed to capture keystrokes in order to steal sensitive information, such as passwords or credit card numbers. Spyware is concerned with monitoring user activity and gathering information without the user’s consent. While all these types of malware pose serious security threats, ransomware is distinct in its direct approach to data encryption and demands