Also called ransomware, ransomware is malware that blocks access to data contained in a device (computer, tablet or smartphone). Its exact definition: “malicious software that prevents users from accessing their system or personal files and demands a ransom in exchange for restoring access”. How to prevent or get rid of it?
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Imagine browsing through one of your electronic devices, when a message suddenly appears on the screen informing you that all your files are now encrypted and out of reach. The text window then tells you that you have to pay to recover all of your data. Does this situation scare you? Do not panic, there is still time to understand how this type of malware works and protect yourself effectively.
How does ransomware work?
A ransomware, also called ransomware, can infect a device in different ways. The most common method is sending malicious attachments or links via e-mail (spam). The malware spreads into the device when the user downloads the tricked attachment or clicks on the link.
the malvertising is another infection method that relies on the use of malicious online advertisements. These very specific ads can redirect users to booby-trapped servers to retrieve information about them and then target them with ransomware-type malware.
Regardless of the type of download, active ransomware on a device will always work the same way by locking down the system, encrypting files and restricting access to the main features of the attacked computer, tablet or smartphone.
What are the different types of ransomware?
The most well-known ransomware is categorized by severity level and falls into one of three types:
- Scareware (fraudulent security software that simulates an attack by displaying an alert window without actually endangering the files contained in the device).
- Screen lockers (intrusions that lock the device screen upon startup and prevent access to the system).
- Encrypting ransomware (direct theft and complete encryption of files with total impossibility of recovery via security or system recovery software).
What protection to adopt against ransomware?
Unfortunately, there is no miracle anti-ransomware solution. The best way to guard against ransomware attacks is to prevent them from happening.
Whether you want to protect your data as a business or an individual, the first thing to do is to invest in a comprehensive cybersecurity solution and have your back covered by getting data recovery software before any ransomware infection.
Many data recovery professionals offer dedicated and customized solutions depending on the operating system and the type of data to be backed up and protected. This is particularly the case of the world leader Ontrack. If you’ve never backed up your data before, learn how to protect yourself from ransomware today with the complete guide to ransomware.
How to react in case of infection of a device?
“Although each incident is unique and can vary in complexity, data recovery is always possible after a ransomware attack. Success depends of course on the ransomware, but also on the affected hardware and the first actions taken following the discovery of the infection” Robin England from Ontrack
In the event of a ransomware attack, do not pay the demanded ransom or risk encouraging cybercriminals to perpetuate this type of intrusion.
Instead, try to recover some encrypted files using a decryptor.
Note that there is not a decryptor for each type of ransomware, sometimes too complex.
If you already have different backups of your data, just get rid of the ransomware using security software. The latter will offer you a complete analysis of your device and will take care of the complete elimination of the threat.
Article produced in partnership with Ontrack
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