On 14 July 2021, Dhruv Pandya gave a talk to the IEEE Buenaventura Section – Computer Society Chapter. (Video, Slides)

Ransomware is an ever-evolving form of malware designed to encrypt files on a device, rendering any files and the systems that rely on them unusable. Malicious actors then demand ransom in exchange for decryption. Ransomware actors often target and threaten to sell or leak exfiltrated data or authentication information if the ransom is not paid. With it’s surge in 2020 and 2021, it is prudent to understand some background, patterns, and current statistics related to Ransomware. We will also discuss its effects on major corporations, governments, and an average citizen.

About the Speaker
Dhruv Pandya is an information security specialist at a leading market research firm. He holds a master’s degree in computer science and a Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Engineering. He believes that learning is a perennial process. His master’s thesis included a research contribution to the SoCal High Technology Task Force. As a computer engineer and an evolving computer scientist, Dhruv has a strong background in Information Security Governance, Digital Forensics, Vulnerability Management, Risk Management and Cryptography.