A ransomware is a cybercriminal’s best friend. This decade-old malicious software makes hacking computers from different parts of the world a job so easy for these enemies of the law. Usually transmitted through web pop-ups and emails, ransomware can easily access an individual’s private information, and leave a threat that can possibly destroy that person’s reputation if the ransom is not settled on the date given. This form of attack has already affected more than 200,000 computers in over 150 countries including Britain, China, Germany, South Korea, and Japan. Hospitals were targeted by cybercriminals at first then they moved on to blue-chip companies, academic institutions, and malls. Government institutions are not safe either, as these cybercriminals have also released ransomware into their system.
What can individuals, businesses, and institutions do to prevent ransomware from entering their system? Here are a few tips:
Always Update the Computer Software
IT experts who specialize in online security believe that WannaCry, a malware, is responsible for the global attack of the ransomware. Their theory is that it was disguised as an important file that people had to download when they received it in their email accounts. Once downloaded, the malicious code then made its way to a network of computers connected via LAN. While users of Macs and non-Windows were not affected, this became a huge problem for users of Windows computers. This could have been avoided if users updated their computer software. Updates also have upgraded security features that can help prevent attacks in the future.
Install an Antivirus Software
Aside from getting security updates every now and then it is also important to install an antivirus software to keep the malware from gaining access to your computer’s system. Keep in mind to update this software every now and then.
Take Caution When Opening Pop-ups and Emails
A malware gains access to a computer whenever it is downloaded through emails and pop-ups. Lesson of the story: don’t click links that are embedded in emails. Now how will you know if it’s safe to open an email? The first step is to take a look at the sender’s email address and see if it is legitimate. Also note the grammatical errors and typos in the email. You can hover over the links (do not click) that are embedded in the email to see if you are being redirected somewhere else. If the email looks like it’s coming from your bank, keep in mind that they know well enough not to ask for private information through this platform. It’s also important to be cautious when adding attachments to email messages.
If you’ve already clicked the links or downloaded the files, the best thing to do would be to disconnect from the computer immediately just so the ransomware does not spread all over the network. Report the crime and ask for help from an IT expert to help you recover your data and to see what options are available.
Guest article written by: Ted is a blogger that writes about technology articles. He loves the technologies and researching about them. He is regularly using and researching for different technologies and would love to share his thoughts with others. He is writing his own blogs and sharing them with others to help them. He writes at whatisanemail.org