Ransomware is now a big problem for many people and businesses. It can damage a business by locking your files and making you pay money to get them back. This article will show how one can protect themselves from ransomware and what to do in case of an attack.
What is Ransomware?
Ransomware is a type of bad software that once it is run on your computer, locks up your files. It then asks you to pay money to unlock your files. This can be very scary and costly.
How does ransomware work?
Ransomware usually comes in through an email or when browsing bad websites. Once run, it starts to encrypt your files with strong codes. Once all your files are encrypted, it displays a message showing you how to pay the ransom.
How can you prevent ransomware attacks?
There are many ways to stop ransomware before it hurts you and here are some key steps:
Use good antivirus / security software
Get strong antivirus software. Keep it turned on and updated. While no software guarantees 100% protection from malware, they can detect many kinds of ransomware and stop a fair percentage of issues.
Be careful with emails
Do not open emails from people you do not know, just delete them. Also do not click links or download files unless you are sure they are 100% safe.
Keep your software up to date
Always keep your computer and programs up to date. Updates often fix problems that lets the ransomware get in.
Back up your files
Copy your most important files, and store them on something other than your primary computer. That way, if ransomware locks your files, you will still have copies.
What do you do if you get ransomware?
If you think you have ransomware, don’t panic, but follow these steps:
Do not pay the ransom
Experts say you should not pay. There is no guarantee you will get your files back. Paying also encourages more attacks as they know you will pay.
Disconnect from the network
Immediately disconnect your computer from the internet. This may prevent the ransomware from spreading across other computers and servers on your network.
Report the attack
Tell the police about the attack. Also, report it to your country’s cyber security center. They can help and use the info to stop future attacks. In Australia this is available at: https://www.cyber.gov.au/report-and-recover/report
Use your backups
If you have backups, then restore your files as that is what backups are for, after all!
How can businesses protect themselves?
The following lists some suggestions on how businesses can further protect themselves from ransomware:
Limit access to key files
Not everyone needs access to every file. Provide access only to those needed to perform their job as this will limit how far ransomware can spread.
Train your employees
Train your employees about ransomware. Give them examples of what to watch out for, and what to do in case they encounter something suspicious.
Have a plan ready
Have a strategy in place, in case you become a target of ransomware. Exercise it. Preparation will make you swift, and thereby contain the damages.
How is ransomware evolving?
Ransomware is getting newer tricks all the time. Watch for this:
Double extortion
Some ransomware now steals your data before it locks it. So if you recover your files from backup they then ask for money to stop them releasing your data on the Internet. This makes the attack even worse as private or confidential information may be released.
Cloud service attacks
Many people are migrating to the cloud for storing data and ransomware has now started targeting those services. So ensure your cloud accounts are secure and backed up.
Attacks on phones and tables
Not only computers are affected by ransomware, now your phones and tablets could also be attacked by ransomware. Be wary with all your devices.
Stay Safe and Prepared
Ransomware is still a serious threat, but you can protect yourself:
- train your staff.
- keep your software updated.
- be careful online.
- always have backups.
- use security software and keep it up to date.
Remember to stay alert and ready and do not try to face ransomware on your own.
Contact us if you need any help with ransomware or have additional questions.