You log on to your computer just like you used to do everyday; but you only see your screen locked and your device unable to boot up. A message requesting money or bitcoins appears instead. It is important for every computer or mobile device user to address ransomware threats.

What is a ransomware?

Ransomware is a form of malicious software or malware which restricts access to your computer or mobile device or encrypts data until you pay a ransom in exchange for accessing your device or data again. One typical example of ransomware is called ded cryptor which locks your devices and files until you agree to pay a ransom which can reach more than 1,000 dollars. This form of cyber blackmail is one of the most dangerous forms of malware today and one that is spreading rapidly worldwide. The number of victims of ransomware keeps on rising, along with continued increase in ransomware modifications. That makes it a constantly evolving threat.

Two forms of ransomware are currently the most widely used around the world Locker and Crypto ransomware.

Locker ransomware locks you out of basic computer functions forcing you to pay bitcoins to regain control. Crypto ransomware on the other hand encrypts sensitive data like documents and important files threatening to destroy them unless you a pay a fee. The three main ways ransomware can infect your computer is through spam, spear phishing and watering hole attacks. Scareware tactics are also used to spread ransomware by creating fake software or messages purporting to be from a legitimate source, but actually demand you to pay a ransom to regain control of your computer.

What can you do to make your device protected?

As dangerous as ransomware is, you are not helpless against it. It is essential to be aware of how ransomware is spread and what kind of defensive measures you can take to stop it before it becomes a serious problem. Avoid phishing scams that spread ransomware by not opening any suspicious emails or links and avoid visiting any suspicious website that may contain ransomware.

Know how to recognize scareware tactics by cybercriminals too. Be sure to back up your computer or mobile device and always use up-to-date internet security software equipped with specific anti-ransomware technologies. Above all, never pay a ransom as it only emboldens the cyber criminals behind these scams. Stay vigilant and invest in trusted security software today.

Sources: The New York Times, Kaspersky, Avast