What is ransomware and how can I protect myself from it?
Ransomware is malware that locks your computer or encrypts your files and demands a ransom to restore access. It’s a type of virus that can spread quickly and easily if you click on a malicious link or download a malicious attachment. Ransomware can infect computers running any type of operating system, including Windows, Mac, and Linux.
There are several things you can do to protect yourself from ransomware:
-Keep your operating system and software up to date. Regularly install security updates and patches.
-Use strong passwords. Use a different password for each online account. Avoid using personal information like your birthdate or mother’s maiden name.
-Beware of phishing emails. Don’t click on links or download attachments from unknown or suspicious email addresses.
-Back up your files. Store important files and documents safely offline. In the event that your computer is infected with ransomware, you’ll be able to restore your files from the backup.
-Install security software. Use a reputable antivirus program and firewall. Scan your computer regularly for malware.
-Be cautious when browsing the web. Avoid downloading anything from unreliable websites. Don’t click on links or ads on suspect websites.
If you think your computer has been infected with ransomware, don’t panic. There are a few things you can do:
-Do not pay the ransom. There’s no guarantee that you’ll get your files back even if you do pay.
-Disconnect from the internet. This will prevent the ransomware from encrypting any more files.
-Restore your files from a backup. If you have a backup of your files, you can restore them.
-Remove the ransomware. Use a reputable security program to scan your computer for malware and remove the ransomware.
How much ransom is typically demanded by ransomware attackers?
Ransomware attackers typically demand a ransom of between $200 and $2000 in Bitcoin, although the average ransom is typically around $500. The exact amount demanded varies depending on the sophistication of the attack and the amount of data encrypted. Many ransomware attacks encrypted a small amount of data and demanded a small ransom, while others have encrypted entire hard drives and demanded a larger ransom.
Visit malwarezero.org to learn more about ransomware. Disclaimer: We used this website as a reference for this blog post.