Most likely, you’ve heard stories about ransomware and its consequences. Hopefully, you didn’t have to deal with it. No matter what your experience with this malware is, it is the right time to protect your computer. Unless your files mean nothing to you.
What is ransomware, anyway? This is a malware that would not let users access their OS or files. Its creators want to get a ransom payment. In return, they promise to restore the data and computer’s performance. Ransomware is a popular thing. It monetizes itself easily. It is a real business for cybercriminals! Also, it is an easy-to-implement malware.
Usually, ransomware infections come in with email attachments or websites. Once it gets into your machine, it starts encrypting your data and hard drive. Then, a cybercriminal demands money and promises to decrypt everything. But there is no guarantee he will.
Apparently, business organizations look more attractive as they have more money. But private individuals become a target too. Unfortunately, many users take a reactive approach when dealing with ransomware. But security experts advise to prevent it. Simple steps may save your business tens of thousands of dollars in losses.
Here is what you can do to protect your computer and other devices.
- Invest in cybersecurity.
The leading producers of antivirus software offer up-to-date protection. Do not ignore them. Buy a program or software to protect your machine from different malware attacks. A good antivirus will rescue your OS and data from ransomware. Read antivirus reviews to pick the one that suits you best. It will block ransomware from holding files hostage.
Some antivirus producers offer free anti-malware tools. Use them. They will remove Trojans and decrypt the infected data. To know more about these antivirus programs, read the posts on Antivirus Best.
Always update your antivirus software. Developers keep an eye on cyber threats, and they offer protection quickly.
- Update your OS regularly.
This is the only way to take care of your software. Enable automatic updating.
- Use controlled folder access.
Ransomware will fail to encrypt your data.
- Create secure backups.
Cloud storage with a multiple-factor authentication would work perfectly. You can also use USB or an external hard drive. Disconnect these devices after backing up to avoid infection.
- Use VPN.
It will protect your device when you access a public Wi-Fi.
- Stay informed.
Find out how to define malware and viruses. Be aware of how to deal with computer infections. Don’t give your personal information in emails, phone calls from unknown people, SMS etc. Watch out for malicious or compromised websites. If you are a business owner, inform your IT department about anything suspicious.
And if you are unlucky enough to get ransomware, this is what you can do:
- Never pay the ransom. There is no guarantee that you will regain access to your data.
- Restore important files from your backup.
- Contact an IT specialist.
Ransomware can be a disaster. It may ruin your work and result in huge financial losses. Better use antivirus and anti-malware software to stay away from it. The good news: you can easily find a perfect solution if you try.
