There are dozens of different types of malware and viruses, each of which is dangerous in its own way.
Some of them inject suspicious ads into your web browser, others steal your personal information, and still, others work covertly in the background that you might not even be aware of.
In recent years, there has been an increase in one of the most harmful and dangerous forms of malware - ransomware.
Ransomware is a special type of malware that demands a financial ransom from victims by threatening to publish, delete, or block access to sensitive personal data.
The consequences of a ransomware attack can be catastrophic and difficult to deal with once your computer has been infected. Preventing an attack is a more effective strategy.
Here's our guide to ransomware, how to prevent it, and what to do if your computer and data have been compromised.
What Types of Ransomware Are There?
Ransomware is a generic term that encompasses many different types of malware.
However, they all have one thing in common: to threaten you or your data with extortion.
Here are the different types of ransomware to be aware of
Crypto Ransomware
This special type of ransomware scans your computer or network for data it believes is important.
The program collects documents such as texts, spreadsheets, images, PDFs, and more for encryption.
Typically, the rest of your data will not be affected and you can still use your computer. However, the encrypted data will be inaccessible and the malware will try to force you to pay the ransom to unblock it.
Most ransomware viruses require between $ 200 and $ 900. If the ransom is not paid within 48-72 hours, the data is usually deleted permanently.
Blocking Ransomware
Blocking ransomware does not know what to block. Once on your computer, this program blocks everything on it!
If you can't even log into your computer, or can't use basic functionality without seeing the threatening ransom, you may be infected with blocking ransomware.
Scareware
Like blocking ransomware, scareware often restricts all access to your computer and data. The difference is that scareware uses a different tactic to get you to pay the ransom.
A pop-up window may appear, ostensibly "scanning" the computer for problems. Of course, she will find some problems and offer to “fix” them, but at an impressive price.
You will not be able to get rid of this message and continue using your computer until you pay the ransom.
Doxware
A particularly nasty form of ransomware, Doxware is not just content to remove or restrict access to your data.
She threatens to post confidential information such as compromising photos or videos, personal information, or financial data on the Internet if the ransom is not paid.
Doxware can be absolutely destructive to both businesses and individuals.
4 Easy Ways to Prevent Ransomware Attacks in 2020
Ransomware attacks can be very serious and dangerous. But preventing them is easy enough if you prepare in advance.
Here are our top ransomware protection tips:
Install the Best Anti-ransomware Antivirus
Performing periodic virus scans is a good idea, but having a solid first line of defense on your computer is even better.
The best antivirus programs now offer some protection against ransomware, including proactive protection against zero-day attacks, and sometimes a specially encrypted folder where you can protect your most important data from hackers.
Keep Your Antivirus and All Other Critical Software and System Up to Date
Some antivirus programs have automatic updates, while others do not.
Despite this, you need to be careful and make sure that you have installed the latest anti-virus databases and patches provided by your ISP in order to be prepared.
You should also regularly update your operating system and other key software components. Usually, new versions or fixes contain important security updates that should not be ignored.
Back-Up Your Most Important Data to a Separate Network or Other Devices (Cold Backup)
In case ransomware does penetrate your protection and infect your computer, you can seriously reduce its impact by backing up your data separately in advance.
Backing up to the cloud is great and can be handy, but ideally, you should create cold backups of your most important files.
This means you must store them on a USB stick or hard drive that you keep separate from your computer and network.
Thus, if you lose these files as a result of a ransomware attack, you can easily recover them.
Be Smart Online and Prevent Possible Ransomware Infection
Ransomware entering your PC through the back door is one thing. Opening the front door and launching it inside is different!
Always practice safe online behavior to avoid viruses and other malware. It means:
- Avoid suspicious and untrustworthy sites
- Download software, apps, and media only from official marketplaces
- Download email attachments only if you know what it is and from whom
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