It’s time you learnt about Ransomware

Every day, there is a different, totally unique piece of malware that threatens to wipe or restrict the data from being accessed by corrupting or wiping computers worldwide. One such malicious malware is notoriously known as ‘Ransomware’.

This malware prevents the user from accessing the system or the data by locking them out. It is usually done by encrypting the system. The motive of a hacker for infecting a system with ransomware is almost always extortion.

The target is informed by the hacker in advance to pay the money if they wish to get hold of their data. The payment is made via bitcoins which allows the hacker to hide their identity.

 

How Does It Work?

Ransomware can be obtained/purchased by anyone with access to the darknet. The hacker can then modify the malware according to their needs and distribute it. The distribution of the ransomware is done through spam emails, infected software, unsafe websites and corrupted external hard drives.

 

Kinds of Ransomware

Three main types of ransomware are as following:

1. Scareware

Unlike the name, this malware is mildly threatening. This ransomware will keep sending messages – asking you to pay or else the malware will wipe your computer. However, your data is completely safe.

2. Screen Lockers

This ransomware will completely block you out of your system. Once you start your computer, you will be greeted with a message stating that you did a crime and you must pay the fine.

3. Encrypting Ransomware

These are the worst kind of ransomware that encrypts your files and keeps them locked unless the ransom is paid. Once this attack happens, there is no other way to retrieve the data short of paying the hacker.

 

Preventive Measures

One of the very foundational ways to keep yourself secure against ransomware attacks is by keeping a backup of all your devices on a regular basis. Avoid clicking on any spam emails or downloading an unknown file onto your computer.

Regularly update all your system files and software to take care of any loopholes. But the best way to fight ransomware attacks is by being informed.

 

How to Remove Ransomware?

Well, not much can be done to remove ransomware. But be sure not to pay the ransom up front as it doesn’t ensure a stop on the ransomware attacks. However, there are things one can do when an attack has happened:

1. Use decryptors to retrieve some of your encrypted files
2. Reboot the system in a safe mode to start it from last restore point
3. Try to reboot the system from a CD or a bootable drive.
4. Install anti-malware software.

There is no one way to protect your data from malware. Keeping yourself appraised about the developments in the security realm of the digital world is the best way forward.

 

In Summary

Securing your data is not only essential but can save your Business from utter disaster.

Protect your data, shield your Business from collapse, Cyber threats are real, and they want your personal information.

Initial IT has been providing technology services and support to small and medium-sized businesses in Staffordshire & beyond for more than 15 years.

Our mission is to drive value with innovative, customer-oriented solutions that give them the edge to compete with their much larger counterparts.