How to Respond to Ransomware
Ransomware is a type of malware that can encrypt data on your computer and demand a ransom in exchange. It usually comes in the form of phishing emails with an attachment that contains a malicious code. When the user clicks on the attachment, the ransomware is downloaded and executes on the victim’s computer. Additionally, ransomware can also be spread through social media messages and chats.
The best way to respond to ransomware is to restore your system from a backup. First, ensure that the backup is uninfected. Then, use an antimalware solution to remove the infection from the system. If a backup is not available, the ransomware can continue to encrypt data and lock your system.
While ransomware is a nuisance, it’s also very expensive. The cost of data loss and productivity loss can be thousands of dollars. Furthermore, the ransomware will cause law enforcement to become involved and investigate the crime. While there are many steps that can be taken to minimize the risk of ransomware, the first step is to find the vulnerability that allows ransomware to spread to your devices.
Besides encrypting data, ransomware can also cripple entire infrastructures. These can include industrial control systems and networks that are essential for a city or country. Cybercriminals may attack these systems to steal valuable information.