Hack Your Way to Success: 2025 Ethical Hacking Essentials Challenge – Level Up Your Skills!

The scenario describes an attacker demanding payment to remove access restrictions, which is characteristic of a ransomware attack. In this type of attack, malicious software is used to encrypt a victim's data or lock them out of their system, effectively holding their files hostage until a ransom is paid. The threat typically includes the promise that access will be restored once payment is made, which aligns perfectly with the demands mentioned in the situation.

Other options like adware, spyware, and phishing do not fit this scenario. Adware generally involves unwanted advertisements and may collect user data but does not restrict access to files. Spyware is designed to gather information about a person or organization without their consent but does not actively hold files or systems hostage. Phishing is a tactic used to deceive individuals into providing sensitive information, often through fake communications, but does not involve the encryption of data or the restriction of access in the manner described.