Ethical Ransomware Simulation: A Safe Framework for Cybersecurity Training

Ransomware is a major cybersecurity threat that causes huge financial and data losses. Most existing solutions focus on stopping ransomware after an attack, but there are not many safe ways to simulate and study ransomware in a controlled environment. This paper introduces an Ethical Ransomware Simulation Framework, a tool that allows cybersecurity students, researchers, and professionals to safely test and learn how ransomware works. The system includes custom ransomware creation, real-time monitoring, and testing of security defenses like firewalls and backups. It provides a risk-free, hands-on approach to understanding ransomware and improving protection methods. This framework helps users prepare for real-world ransomware attacks and strengthens overall cybersecurity.