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Ransomware is indeed one of the most significant security concerns on the internet and one of the most prominent forms of cyber threats that organizations face today. File and document encryption is performed by this malicious software, affecting anything from a single PC to an entire network of computers, including servers. Criminals behind ransomware often leave victims with only two options: pay a ransom or restore from backups.
Different types of Ransomware
There are different types of ransomware, but they can be disseminated into two distinct groups. The first one locks several vital functions, making it difficult to operate your computer, and the other encrypts every data file found on your system.
Crypto Ransomware: This is the most destructive type of ransomware. For decryption, it uses (paid for) asymmetric keys that are generated randomly. WannaCry, a crypto-ransomware attack that took place in 2017, is the most famous example. Heavily infected computers all over the world, hundreds of thousands of which were in corporate networks. Here the damage is done if your files are encrypted.
Locker ransomware – These attacks prevent users from logging into their computers. They stop their victims from accessing any files or programs. Here essential computer functions are affected.
How Ransomware works
Ransomware can infect a computer in a variety of ways. Some attackers can target the weakest link in a company’s digital supply chain to create a supply chain attack. This form of cyber attack involves an attacker packaging ransomware into the distribution method of trusted software, so that customers unthinkingly download the ransomware alongside the desired program. This can often lead to huge numbers of people being affected. Cybercriminals try to trick victims into opening infected attachments and links via email using phishing spam, one of today’s most common methods. Phishing technique entails sending decoys using emails and making them appear to come from a trusted source or a notable brand to a recipient who is then tempted to enter valid credentials on a fake website or download an infected file because they appear to be authentic. The use of drive-by downloads or malvertising is another popular method of infection. In this case, malware is distributed via online advertising, with little to no user interaction required. Users can be directed to criminal servers without clicking on an ad.
Once the malware has taken control of the victim’s computer, it may do several things, but the most common is to encrypt some or all of the user’s files. A mathematical key known only by the attacker must decrypt files at the end of the process. Unable to access files, the user is informed by a message that they must send an untraceable Bitcoin payment to the attacker.
How to remove and prevent Ransomware
A firm must work together to combat ransomware just as the Biden administration has made it a priority to battle supply chain attacks. While ransomware may not be wholly preventable, organizations can reduce the risk by implementing cybersecurity policies and procedures and enhancing cybersecurity awareness and exercises among all employees.
A security suite is essential if you don’t already have one installed on your computer, and you rely solely on Windows’ built-in malware and virus scanner. A one-size-fits-all package or individual software packages like Bitdefender, Kaspersky, Norton, ESET, and Trend Micro come to mind. Still, other options are malware-specific software, decide on one and commit to the annual subscription fee.
If you already have it, your system can be cleaned of ransomware. Simple attacks can be handled with a free anti-ransomware tool. Using these tools, you can remove ransomware viruses from your computer and decrypt any files that have been encrypted due to the attack on your computer. Data recovery teams and cyber risk experts are essential in more severe cases, such as a corporate breach involving crypto-ransomware. They can decrypt files and negotiate ransom demands with cybercriminals. It is essential to store backups off-network and regularly test them for integrity to mitigate the risk of data loss resulting from a victorious ransomware raid.
The threat posed by ransomware continues to evolve, so it’s crucial that organizations and individuals know it, and everyone takes every safeguard to resist being infected. This is more reason to keep an eye on every threat it tends to pose and to be prepared for anything that may come your way! You must inform and acquaint yourself with ransomware, be highly conscientious about using your devices, and learn to install the best security software on your computers.
Anton Lucanus is the Founder and CEO of Neliti.
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