Which type of attack involves encrypting information assets and demanding payment for the decryption key?

The correct answer is associated with an attack where an adversary encrypts a victim's data and then demands a ransom payment in exchange for the decryption key. This method of attack is commonly known as a ransomware attack. In this scenario, the attacker typically provides a deadline for payment and threatens to delete or permanently lock the data if the ransom is not paid, creating significant pressure on the victim.

This type of attack has gained notoriety because it effectively exploits emotional and financial distress, making it more likely that victims will comply with the demands. Ransomware can target various entities, including individuals, businesses, and government organizations, often crippling operations and access to critical data.

In contrast, other types of attacks, such as data breaches, involve unauthorized access to data rather than encryption for ransom. Man-in-the-Middle attacks focus on eavesdropping or interception of communication, while spyware attacks involve malicious software designed to gather information without the user's consent. These distinctions make ransomware attacks particularly harmful and unique in their payment demands and operational impact on the victim.