Ransomware refers to a sophisticated form of cyberattack and one of the most harmful cyber threats that the modern-day world faces. Cybercriminals may use ransomware to target organizations of any type, such as small teams, state systems, large organizations, and government networks. Ransomware is a form of malware that scrambles and deletes all data when downloaded to a device. Its actions cannot be reversed until a restoration ransom is paid.
It is capable of crippling networks and damaging infrastructure. Some ways an individual or an organization can become vulnerable to ransom attacks include: ●Using old devices and computers without proper support
●Neglecting to keep software updated to the latest version
●Web Browsers and Operating Systems being old and un-patched
●Lack of proper backup plans
●Failure to pay attention to cybersecurity and lack of functional preventive strategies.
Preventing Ransomware Attacks
Avoid Clicking On Unsafe Links
You should definitely avoid clicking on links on unknown websites or email messages. Clicking on malicious links could start automatic downloads, which infects your device.
Do Not Disclose Personal Information.
If you receive a phone call, a text message or an email from an unknown source asking for your personal information or asking you to reset a password, don’t reply. Cybercriminals on a mission to plan ransomware attacks often try collecting personal information beforehand to cook up phishing messages sent specifically to you or to use that information to try to log into your online accounts.
Avoid Opening Suspicious Email Attachments.
Email attachments containing ransomware may find its way into your device. Avoid opening any suspicious-looking attachments. To ensure the trustworthiness of an email, pay attention to the sender and confirm that the address is correct or from a place that you recognize. Avoid opening attachments that prompt you to run macros to view them. If you open an infected attachment, it will run a malicious macro that allows the malware to control your computer.
Do Not Use Unknown USB Drives.
Avoid connecting USB drives or other storage devices to your computer when you do not know where they come from. Cybercriminals have been known to infect storage media and place them in public places to entice computer owners to use them and become potential victims of ransomware attacks.
Only Use Known and Trusted Download Sources.
To reduce the chances of downloading ransomware, avoid downloading media files or software from unknown sites. Only visit trustworthy and verified sites for your downloads, recognized by the trust seals or the appearance of ‘https’ instead of ‘http’ page’s browser address bar, and a lock or shield symbol, which are indicators that the page is secure.
For Public Wi-Fi Networks, Be Sure to Use VPN Services.
A public Wi-Fi network makes your computer more susceptible to ransomware attacks. Be sure not to use public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions. Alternatively, use a secure VPN service to make hacking more difficult.
We cannot overstress the sheer potential damage caused by ransomware attacks. In a lot of cases, the data is never recovered due to unpaid ransom. Take steps to ensure you will never be in the situation of dealing with a ransomware attack
