Types
Wiper
Destructive malware that irreversibly destroys data or systems — sometimes disguised as ransomware to delay attribution.
A wiper exists to destroy. It overwrites files, corrupts the master boot record, or wipes disks outright — with no intent to provide recovery. Some wipers masquerade as ransomware to buy time and muddy attribution, displaying a ransom note while the data is already gone.
Sabotage, not profit
Wipers are typically tools of sabotage and statecraft rather than crime. NotPetya — disguised as ransomware — caused billions in damage in 2017, and wiper families have featured heavily in geopolitical conflict since.
Defense
Offline, immutable backups are the only real protection. Treat any "ransomware" with a non-functional decryptor as a wiper incident and prioritise containment over negotiation.