The file encrypter, ransomware has already infected thousands of computers around the world. In May 2017, 100 000 organizations in 150 countries were infected by Ransomware. Three days after the first release of Ransomware.
Isn’t it alarming?
What is frightening about the Ransomware attack is that it guarantees loss of data. Once the file or computer is held hostage, it requires a ransom of $ 200 and up in exchange for the decryption key. The files are not restored until the ransom has been paid.
To understand better Ransomware. Let’s talk about it briefly.
Ransomware is a malware type that encrypts files and locks your computer. It is installed by social engineering, such as phishing links and e – mails. Once installed, it loads and deletes the computer’s memory.
This doesn’t mean Ransomware isn’t on the computer anymore. It is still there to remain invisible in the Task Manager so that it can access the files on the hard drive without exposure. Surprised, when the user opens the file! Access is refused!
What should you do if Ransomware hits your computer?
Don’t Panic
So you’ve found out that Ransomware has your files infected, what do you do next? Just stay calm. Anyway, panicking will never solve the problem. The file was encrypted and the computer locked. You need a sound mind to solve the problem.
Try to find out how Ransomware is placed on your computer. Remember any suspicious e – mail or attachment that you recently downloaded that might contain the virus? This helps to raise awareness.
Disconnect and disable
- Disconnect the infected computer to prevent ransomware from infecting the other devices in the network. Ransomware can also spread through the network.
- Once you are disconnected, you can disable it from encrypting other files on your computer.
- Go to MSCONFIG, select Start.
- Search for an unknown publisher for any suspicious file.
- Uncheck it, click then apply all right.
This stops the activities of Ransomware on your computer.
Decide whether to delete or not Ransomware
NOTE: If you decide to restore the files by paying for the ransom, never delete the virus because the encryption key may be lost.
Although FBI recommends that the hackers not be paid because the encryption is never guaranteed. If you’ve backed up your files, you can delete Ransomware.
- Enter Safe Mode when you restart the computer by pressing F8 before loading Windows.
- Go to the TEMP folder to remove the files inside. In the TEMP folder, ransomware, trojan, spyware, adware and other malware types usually hide.
- Use an anti – malware software to scan your computer once the files are deleted. Once the scanning is finished, the detected threat will be displayed on the computer.
- Remove and exit. You can now normally restart Windows.
- Ransomware should have been removed from the computer. If you don’t have backups for your files, you can try some online decryption tools. You can help restore your files without paying for your rescue.
- The decryption key does not work in some cases, but it is worth trying.
Prevention of Ransomware There is a saying that ” prevention is better than cure. ” That’s true!. The best way to avoid the trouble of encrypting or ransoming your files is to prevent Ransomware from entering the computer.
How can I do that?
Be careful when accessing the internet.We mentioned that Ransomware is installed in certain social engineering forms. It is an art of disappointment. It makes users happy to install malware by presenting it positively.
One example is a phishing email containing a message saying that you have a funny photo, click here to see the picture. If you do not know this is a social engineering form, you will install malware as soon as you download the attachment.
Another example is a phishing link to a fake website containing malware. Many don’t know that the website they log in is fake. You can use a web site inspector to check if the link is safe.
To check your reputation, this scans the URL. Installing advanced anti – malware software is one of the best ways to protect your computer against Ransomware and other malware. The anti malware fights against malware and keeps your computer safe all the time. You must never worry about your computer being attacked by Ransomware.