Ransomware: Some dos and don'ts you need to know!

Ransomware is considered one of the most successful types of malware in recent years. Its purpose is to extort money from its victim in exchange for the recovery of encrypted files. Like most viruses, it is usually found on a device, exploiting a security hole in vulnerable software or tricking someone into installing it (phishing). Ransomware, as it is known, targets high-profile victims such as hospitals, public schools, government agencies, organizations, private businesses and police departments.

One thing is certain: ransomware has proven to be a profitable business for cybercriminals.

Below we list some dos and don'ts for a simple user.

• Do not pay the ransom! Even paying the required amount does not guarantee that you will eventually regain access to your files.
• Make sure to create backups of your files so that if you get infected you can restore the affected files from the backup.
• Do not provide personal information when responding to an email, unsolicited phone call, text message, or instant message. Phishers will try to trick you into installing malware.
• Use reputable antivirus software and firewall. Maintaining a strong firewall and keeping your security software up to date is crucial. It is important to use antivirus software from a reputable company.
• Use content scanning and filtering on mail servers. Incoming emails should be scanned for known threats and any types of attachments that could pose a threat should be blocked.
• Make sure all systems and software are up to date with relevant patches. Exploit kits hosted on compromised websites are commonly used to spread malware.
• If you're traveling, notify your IT department in advance, especially if you'll be using public Wi-Fi. Make sure you use a trusted VPN when accessing public Wi-Fi.