Ransomware is malicious code used by hackers to prevent users access to their own data. Thus, a payment (ransom) is requested to restore the viewing and editing of the information.
Typically, the attacker uses encryption to block access and asks for payment through Bitcoin (electronic money). Want to know how to protect your machine from this problem? Read on.
How Does It Work
Malicious code is sent to the user via email using an infected attachment or link. Another very common way is access through the vulnerabilities of systems that have not received security updates.
The attacker encrypts the information and hides the passkey. This makes it difficult to decipher the codes to retrieve the data. In other cases, the computer screen is usually blocked with a pop-up, being released only after payment of the ransom.
The risk of this situation is that there is no guarantee that the hijacker will release access. Therefore, depending on the hacker’s nature, the user may pay the ransom and still not recover the data.
As such, there are two main types of malicious code:
- The ransomware locker: which blocks access to the equipment;
- Crypto ransomware: which uses cryptography to prevent access to data.
How to Avoid Ransomware
The first necessary measure to avoid machine contamination is the installation of a quality antivirus. The most reliable software on the market is already able to identify various types of infections and block them before they cause harm to the user.
Another effective practice is the constant updating of the systems used. Solution providers make these changes to fix bugs and mitigate software vulnerabilities.
The third recommendation to avoid ransomware infection is to avoid accessing emails from unknown users. It may seem like a simple tip, but many people infect their machines by clicking on altered links.
In addition, it is recommended to perform frequent backups of the information stored on the computer, whether it is personal or company equipment. You can use an external hard drive or opt for a cloud solution. Thus, if the machine is infected at any time, it will be enough to delete the information and replace it with the saved data.
How to Act If the Computer Is Infected
Solving the problem is more difficult than preventing it. Microsoft, for example, has a solution to remove major viruses from the market. However, there is no guarantee that you will be able to eliminate the ransomware.
If the problem is the screen locked, it is necessary to restart the computer in safe mode (using F8) and use its own tool to eliminate the virus. Among the main options on the market are:
- Acronis Ransomware Protection;
- Avast;
- Bitdefender Anti-Ransomware;
- Ransom Free by Cybereason;
- Trend Micro RansomBuster.
Also, avoid paying the ransom charge as you will not know if you will ever have access to the data again. If none of these options resolve the issue, it is best to format the computer safely.
Now you know what ransomware is and how to protect yourself from this virus. Remember to keep your systems up to date and not open any file attachments from unknown people.
