How effective is formatting a hard drive at completely eliminating ransomware?

Formatting a hard drive can indeed remove ransomware from an infected system because it erases all data on the drive, including the ransomware itself. However, it’s important to note that formatting a hard drive should be done as a last resort, as it will also delete all other data on the drive. Additionally, some advanced ransomware strains can survive formatting by hiding in other areas of the system or on connected devices. It’s recommended to use reputable antivirus software or seek professional help to thoroughly clean the system if infected with ransomware.