Social media ransomware locks accounts or threatens public release of private messages. It can also spread malware via phishing DMs. High-profile accounts are often targeted to demand larger ransoms. Account recovery is difficult and time-sensitive. Social engineering amplifies the attack’s effectiveness.
It matters because personal and professional reputations are at risk. Social trust is affected.
It also highlights the intersection of cybersecurity and social influence.
Ransomware can lock or hijack social media accounts for extortion.
[Trend Micro, trendmicro.com]