What you need to know about RANSOMWARE

Ransomware? What is it and why you should be aware of it?

To those “techy” people, they can simply describe Ransomware as the “menace” in the world of computers, a “villain” in the group of superheroes, or an “illness” that can overtake a healthy body. In these simple terms, I am sure you’re able to get a hint of what Ransomware is.

What is Ransomware?

Ransomware is described by I.T. experts as the “kidnapper” in the World Wide Web. This usually comes in the form of malicious software or attachments that encrypt documents, data, or files. Ransomware attacks are not just to steal personal identification, data, and/or credentials but, what they often do is to place your information to their “hostage” and they will ask for monetary demand in return, that’s why it is called RANSOMWARE. Once you don’t meet their monetary demand, the worst thing is most likely to happen.

Where Ransomware does often attack?

In most cases, ransomware attacks came from seemingly innocent or harmless apps or software, email attachments, malicious websites, or simply in-file attachments.

How to know if you have been attacked?

There’s only one way to know if malware has attacked you; on your display screen, you will see a flash message showing the ransom amount.

Two main types of Ransomware

According to Kaspersky, the two main types of ransomware are:

1. Locker – Locker programs are quite an easy attack. Attackers will just lock your computer’s functions or your access to the Internet.

2. Crypto – Crypto type of attack is when the attackers encrypt your files or documents and demand a payment as the ransom to release your files.

How to prevent a Ransomware attack?

The first prevention is not opening email attachments you are not sure of where it came from. If you think you are not familiar with the sender or something suspicious in the email message “DO NOT OPEN IT”. Also, refrain from visiting malicious websites or downloading malicious apps and software.

Install an anti-malware program or other anti-virus software that can detect ransomware.

Back up your files, and make it a practice! Use an external hard drive to save or store your files. In this way, once your files get attacked, you need not worry since you have a backup.

In business, add security measures to your network that will easily detect or block a ransomware attack. Invest in the right devices that will help you prevent this kind of issue.

SUMMARY:

Security of your data and files is very important. With the increasing growth of hackers in the World Wide Web, we should always be one step away from them. We should be wise enough to use our computers and the internet so us not become a victim. Attackers are just waiting for the right time to harm you, don’t give them a slight chance to get into you. Install the necessary security and protection software to prevent any kind of attack.

Should you need assistance with the security of your network, Jackson Technologies has different programs that you can choose from. We can mix and match the program that is suitable for your needs.

We are just one call or email away. Contact us directly for immediate assistance.

Our office number is (412) 853-3708 or you can simply send us an email at [email protected].

“We do I.T. so you don’t have to”