Ransomware… Have you ever heard that term? It is likely that you have heard about ransomware before, as it is a type of malware that is on the rise.
In recent years, there has been quite a stir around the issue of ransomware, since every day there is more news about this cybernetic threat and it is not for less. There may even be a pop-up message on your computer right now, alerting you to a ransomware infection.
So, if your computer has been infected with ransomware or you want to prevent this situation, you have certainly come to the right place. And it is that prevention is the key to avoiding this type of scam.
On this occasion, we are going to talk about this cybersecurity threat that is growing by leaps and bounds.
We will show you how you can prevent these attacks and what to do if you have been affected. But what is ransomware?
What is Ransomware?
Ransomware is nothing more than a type of malware that seeks to prevent the user from accessing their system and even their personal files. It works in the form of extortion, as it requires the user to pay a ransom to gain access to the system or personal files again.
Once the system and computer is infected with ransomware, it immediately locks all files, while demanding payment to unlock them. On the other hand, other malwares of this type demand a payment as a threat by leaking the data of the locked files and thus increasing the pressure on the user.
You might think that this type of extortion is relatively new. However, the first malware of this type was created at the end of the 80’s, payment being made at that time via postal mail. Currently, the creators of this type of extortion demand payment through credit cards and more recently with cryptocurrencies.
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How can a device get infected with ransomware?
Malware of this type could affect your computer in various ways. However, one of the most common methods is through malicious spam or malspam. They are basically unsolicited messages directly to your email inbox that include malware of this type.
Usually, these email messages include infected attachments, such as Word documents, PDFs or links to malicious pages.
The dangerous thing and why so many people fall into this trap is that these types of messages use social engineering. That means they are messages intended to trick people into opening those attachments or clicking links in the email. Said files and links usually pretend to be legitimate or that they come from a highly trusted institution, a friend, relative, etc.
How to prevent a ransomware-type attack?
There are several ways to prevent this type of cyberattack, but it is clear that it could affect any user. In fact, the most vulnerable are usually small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), wreaking significant havoc on these businesses. In most cases, these businesses can be rendered inoperative for a very long period of time, with average payments of up to $170,000 being required.
As you can see, it is not an insignificant risk, and in this sense, there are several aspects to consider to prevent ransomware attacks.
1. Equipment protection.
Without a doubt, the best protection against ransomware is prevention. It is very important that you know how to protect your information from this dangerous malware. There are very simple tricks that can help you increase your online security and considerably reduce the risks.
– Learn to identify phishing very well, since it is the most frequent form of malware of this type.
-Always be vigilant while browsing the Internet, without clicking on any suspicious links, banners or pop-ups.
– Establish passwords with special characters and with a high degree of complexity, without repeating them on any platform.
– When downloading applications and programs, only do it from official and trusted websites.
– Install a very efficient antivirus to protect yourself from threats. In the following link, you will be able to see some very interesting recommendations: best free antivirus in 2023.
– On all your devices always keep the software updated.
– Make backup copies frequently.
2. Prepare to act.
If your computer or device has been infected with such malware, never, ever, ever pay the ransom. In this sense, what is suggested to minimize the impact is to follow the following steps:
– If you have an IT administrator, you should immediately notify them of what happened. Of course you must follow all his instructions to the letter. Otherwise, immediately disconnect all infected devices from the network to prevent this malware from spreading.
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– Ask a computer expert to format the hard drive that has been infected by ransomware. Later he requests that you reinstall the operating system and can restore information using a backup or from the files that have been recovered with the help of NoMoreRansom.
Regarding the latter, I suggest that you first visit the official website: nomoreransom.org / Crypto Sheriff.
There what you need to do is upload the encrypted files as well as the ransomware note. Additionally, it includes all the details that can make it easier to identify the type of malware (ransomware) that is affecting you.
Later, if the information provided matches some of the decryption solutions available there, you will be able to download it completely free of charge.
3. Take the right measurements.
Finally, if you have been a victim of this cyberattack, you should inform the local authorities. They will give you more support and investigate the case. They will also be able to take steps to prevent and stop such attacks.
At Virtual CNS we specialize in the security of small and medium-sized companies. Discover all our services in the following link: Managed it services for small businesses.
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