Ransomware is malicious software designed to disrupt your computer’s operations, steal access to your personal data, and threaten to release it until you pay a ransom. It usually comes in through files downloaded from unsecured 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 mostly classified into these three types:
- Low Risk – In this category, fake antivirus tools claim to find malware on your device and ask for a fee to fix it.
- Medium Risk – This category usually locks your screen or window and claims to be from legal entity and ask for money as fine charge as they claim some illegal activity has been done on your device from you.
- Dangerous: This category encrypts all data on your system and directly demands money to decrypt it; otherwise, you will end up losing the data or they can spread or share it in public.
It is also spread via phishing emails or malicious websites. If you think you might 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 essential 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 its pre-infection state.
Also, it is important to know and be aware of the fake ransomware verification and removal tools available on the market that may end up tricking you.
Five ways to remove ransomware from your computer
Ransomware is malware that encrypts your files and requires a ransom payment to decrypt them. It is a serious threat to individuals and businesses as it can lead to the loss of essential and often sensitive data.
Here are five of the best ways to remove ransomware from your computer and deal with it!
Use an antimalware program
Anti-malware programs are designed to detect and remove malware 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 your files if you have been infected with ransomware.
pay the ransom
In some cases, paying the ransom is the only way to get your files back. However, this is not recommended, as it can encourage attackers to target other victims. Also, there is no guarantee that you will get the decryption key after paying the ransom.
Raise your voice against him
Even if you have already faced the problem and suffered the loss, it is essential to inform others about these problems to raise awareness around you. You can also file a complaint against yourself with the cybercrime 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 the backup. There are three ways to back up your data: local backup, cloud backup, and offline backup.
Local backups are stored on the external hard drive or SSD connected to a 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 backup method, it is essential to choose the one that best suits 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 you care more about convenience, a cloud backup may be the best option. Regardless of which backup method you choose, be sure to test it regularly and see if it works correctly.
Also, keep copies of the backup in different locations in case one of them gets corrupted. Although ransomware can be a devastating attack, with a good backup strategy in place, you can protect your data and restore it quickly.
Top ransomware verification and removal tools
Here are the top five ransomware check and removal tools to protect your device:
Avast Premium Security
It is an all-in-one antivirus defense program for different devices like laptops, smartphones, and tablets. By subscribing to this software, you will never have to worry about making unsafe online purchases, visiting unexpected websites, or saving cryptic files on your device. By warning you about potential dangers and removing them, it protects you from all of it.
Home Thor Premium
It is a great alternative that will help protect your computer. It is an all-in-one antivirus and ransomware suite that is known for detecting and removing even the most persistent viruses and scams.
no more ransom
In this tool, you will be asked to upload the encrypted file (not larger than 1 MB), and the tool will tell you if a solution is available to decrypt the file.
spyware scanner
It specifically helps you to identify if you are infected with LeChiffre, CryptoLocker ransomware. In the free version, you can scan your PC and if it is found, you need to purchase Spyhunter malware removal tool.
ID Ransomware
ID Ransomware helps you verify which ransomware has encrypted your data. All you are supposed to do is upload the sample encrypted file and the note, which shows the name and payment information.
key takeaways
Ransomware is a serious threat to all types of businesses, regardless of their size. The damage caused by ransomware can be difficult to repair and can result in a huge loss that can be difficult to recover. While it’s essential to know the best ways to remove ransomware if it infringes your system, it’s also crucial to have preventative measures in place to avoid ransomware in the first place.
With the increase in cases of ransomware attacks, it is essential to educate people about preventive measures. It can help them from the torment of losing important data.
The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) is propagating a ransomware awareness campaign to reduce the Risk of Ransomware by providing information and resources for organizations and individuals. Additionally, CISA is emphasizing nine smart cyber habits for individuals and organizations to implement to avoid falling victim to ransomware.
Lastly, always keep your backup alternatives ready and make sure to use ransomware verification and removal tools to avoid the attack. If you are still caught in a ransomware attack, register a FIR against it, which can be done on an online and offline portal.
Read More Author: Janvi Panthri Senior Writer, Editor
Categories: How to
Source: vtt.edu.vn