Just what is ransomware?
Ransomware is a type of malware that blocks or restricts access to a computer system until a ransom is paid to it’s creator. The ransom demand often threatens to delete files or sell the data to other malicious users if payment is not made.
How does it work?
Ransomware often arrives via email attachment, phishing email, or through a virus unknowingly installed from an infected software. How do you protect yourself from ransomware? To avoid being affected by this malware, it is important to have a backup plan that protects data from any malicious attack.
It is real!
Ransomware is becoming a bigger and bigger problem. A new study by McAfee, a cyber security company, has found that just over one in five firms have been attacked. The study found that of these companies, around 42% were attacked at least once a year, and 17% had been attacked three times or more.
How to Protect Against Ransomware
Protecting yourself against ransomware is a vital step to take. Here are some helpful tips to stay safe:
* Keep software up to date and install security patches when available.
* Install a current-technology antivirus program with Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR) and keep it updated.
* Avoid clicking on links from unknown sources or downloading files from untrustworthy websites or sources.
* Backup and protect data regularly.