Ransomware is increasing in recent months and once your computer is infected it is highly unlikely you will be able to recover any data that has been infected, by far the best protection against this type of threat is awareness and precaution. Here is Red data’s guide on how best to avoid it and what to do if you think a computer may be infected;
What is ransomware?
Ransomware (a.k.a. rogueware or scareware) restricts access to your computer system and/or files and demands that a ransom is paid in order for the restriction to be removed – Paying the demand will not actually unlock your computer or files and is simply a scam to make money.
How best to avoid this type of infection?
•Install and use an up-to-date antivirus solution (i.e. Microsoft Security Essentials).
•Make sure windows is up-to-date.
•Avoid clicking on links or opening attachments or emails from people unless you already know them to be a trusted source.
•Enable smart screen in Internet Explorer.
•Have a pop-up blocker running in your web browser.
•Always backup your important files regularly.
What to do if you think a computer might be infected:
If you think a computer might be infected with ransomware you should turn the computer in question off immediately or you may risk the infection spreading over your network to other computers and devices. The next step is to contact and IT professional and explain the situation, they will then be able to quarantine your computer and diagnose it further and attempt to repair it without any risk of the infection spreading.
