Ransomware is malware designed to disrupt your computer, steal access to your personal information, and threaten to release it until you pay a ransom. It usually enters through files downloaded from unsafe sources on the Internet. Once on your computer, it encrypts your personal files. The attacker then demands payment in exchange for the key needed to decrypt your files.
There are several types of ransomware. However, they are mainly classified into these three types:
- Low Risk – In this category, fake antivirus tools claim to find malware on your device and ask for a repair fee.
- Medium Risk: This category usually locks your screen or window and claims to be from a legal entity and demands money as a penalty because it claims some illegal activity has occurred from you on your device.
- Dangerous: This category encrypts all data on your system and directly demands money for decryption; otherwise, you will lose your data or it will be publicly disseminated or shared.
It is also spread via phishing emails or malicious websites. If you think you may be a victim of ransomware, immediately disconnect your computer from the Internet to prevent the attacker from encrypting any more files.
You should use a reputable antivirus program as a precaution to scan your computer for malware and remove it if found. Also, you can use data recovery software to restore any encrypted files.
However, it is important to note that there is no guarantee that it will work. If you have a backup of your files, you can use it to restore your computer to a pre-infection state.
Also, it is important to know and be aware of fake ransomware removal tools and verification tools available on the market that can trick you.
Five ways to remove Ransomware from your computer
Ransomware is malware that encrypts your files and demands a ransom payment to decrypt them. This is a serious threat to individuals and businesses as it can lead to the loss of essential and often sensitive data.
These are the top five ways to remove ransomware from your computer and fix the problem!
Use an anti-malware program
Anti-malware programs are designed to detect and remove malicious software from your computer. If you have an anti-malware program installed on your computer, you can run a scan to detect and remove any ransomware that may be present.
Use a Ransomware removal tool
Ransomware removal tools are specific programs designed to remove ransomware from a system. Most of the ransomware tools are available for free.
Restore your files from backups
If you have backup copies of your files, you can restore your data after removing the ransomware. It is the most effective way to recover files if you have been infected with ransomware.
pay the ransom
In some cases, paying the ransom is the only way to recover files. However, this is not recommended as it may encourage attackers to attack other victims. Also, there is no guarantee that you will get the decryption key after paying the ransom.
Raise your voice against it
Even if you have already faced a problem and suffered a loss, it is crucial to inform others about such problems in order to raise awareness around you. You can also file a complaint against him in the cyber crime cell so that hackers do not do such mischief with others in the future.
How to protect yourself from Ransomware?
Ransomware is a growing problem, and the best way to protect yourself from ransomware is with a strong backup strategy.
This way, even if the files are encrypted, they can be restored from a backup. There are three ways to back up your data: local backup, cloud backup, and offline backup.
Local backups are stored on an external hard drive or SSD connected to the computer. Cloud backups are stored on a remote server, usually in the cloud.
Offline backups are stored on a separate device that isn’t always connected to your computer.
When choosing a security method, it is important to choose one that meets your needs. For example, if you have sensitive data that you want to keep private, an offline backup might be the best option.
Similarly, if convenience is more important to you, cloud backup may be a better option. Regardless of the backup method you choose, test it periodically to make sure it’s working properly.
Also, keep backups in different locations in case one of them gets corrupted. Although ransomware can be a devastating attack, if you have a good backup strategy, you can protect your data and recover it quickly.
The best ransomware verification and removal tools
Here are five of the best ransomware scan and removal tools to protect your device:
Avast Premium Security
It is a comprehensive antivirus program for various devices such as laptops, smartphones, and tablets. By subscribing to this software, you will never have to worry about unsafe online shopping, visiting unexpected websites, or keeping cryptic files on your device. By alerting you to potential dangers and removing them, it protects you from all of it.
Home Thor Premium
It is a great alternative to help protect your computer. It is a complete ransomware and antivirus package known to detect and destroy even the most persistent viruses and scams.
no more ransom
In this tool, you will be asked to upload an encrypted file (not larger than 1 MB) and the tool will inform you if there is a solution available to decrypt the file.
spyware scanner
In particular, it helps you identify if you are infected with LeChiffre, the CryptoLocker ransomware. In the free version, you can scan your computer and if it is found, you need to purchase Spyhunter malware removal tool.
ID Ransomware
ID Ransomware helps you verify which ransomware encrypted your data. All you need to do is upload a sample encrypted file and a note, showing your name and payment information.
Key facts of the van
Ransomware is a serious threat to all types of businesses, regardless of their size. The damage caused by ransomware can be difficult to undo and can result in a huge loss that can be difficult to recover. While it is essential to know the best ways to remove ransomware if it does get into your system, it is also crucial to have preventative measures in place to avoid ransomware.
With the increasing number of ransomware attacks, it is essential to educate people about preventive measures. This could help them through the agony of losing important data.
The Cyber Security and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) is promoting a ransomware awareness campaign to reduce the risk of ransomware by providing information and resources for organizations and individuals. In addition, CISA highlights nine smart cyber habits that individuals and organizations should practice to avoid becoming a victim of ransomware.
Finally, always prepare your backup alternatives and make sure to use ransomware removal tools and verification tools to prevent an attack. If you are still under ransomware attack, register a FIR against it, which can be done both on the online and offline portal.
Categories: How to
Source: HIS Education