Blockares

Blockares are a type of malware that prevents legitimate software or operating system functions from running. This can manifest in several ways, most commonly by displaying a fake ransom note that demands payment to unlock the computer or restore access to files. Alternatively, a blockware can simply lock the user out of their system entirely, rendering it unusable until some action is taken, which may or may not involve payment.

Unlike ransomware, which typically encrypts files, blockware's primary goal is to disrupt access. The methods used to achieve this vary. Some blockware might modify critical system files, making it impossible for the operating system to boot. Others could inject malicious code into running processes that interfere with user input or application execution. The visual presentation is often a full-screen message designed to intimidate the user into compliance.

The infection vectors for blockware are similar to other malware, including malicious email attachments, compromised websites, and the exploitation of software vulnerabilities. While the immediate effect is a loss of access, the ultimate motive is usually financial gain through extortion. Removing blockware can sometimes be achieved through specialized antivirus tools or by booting into a recovery environment to undo the malicious changes. However, in some cases, a full system reformat might be necessary.