What is Ransomware? How it works? Ways to secure yourself

Technology enhances the usefulness of goods and services. It aims at creating value. We can look around and see the various effects of technology on food industry, consumerism, industrial, business, comfort, utilisation of resources, travel, communication, education, healthcare, architecture, design, etc. It helps us connect with others socially, stay connected with others. Technology has undoubtedly made the work of all of us easier, but due to technical problems, every day someone in some corner of the world is becoming a victim of ransomware attack. What is a ransomware attack and how can it be avoided? To avoid ransomware, it is first important to understand how ransomware works?

What is Ransomware? 

Ransomware is a type of malicious software which locks your files and then a huge amount is demanded to unlock your files. This problem has increased a lot in the last few years and now ransomware affects not only people but also businessmen and the government.

How it works? 

Strong encryption is now used to lock your important files from ransomware attacks. Ransomware usually infiltrates devices through phishing emails, malicious file downloads, or by taking advantage of flaws in outdated software. After entering the device, ransomware locks your important files, so that you are not able to open the files.

The attacker then demands ransom to unlock your files, which is usually paid in cryptocurrency. Not only this, the attackers also threaten to release the victim's data publicly if the ransom is not paid.

Has it killed anyone? 

University of Minnesota School of Public Health experts estimate that ransomeware attacks killed 42 to 67 Medicare patients between 2016 and 2021.

How to secure yourself? 

• To avoid ransomware attacks, always keep your device's software updated. Many times, after a security flaw is detected, the company issues a software update and if the software is not updated, then a ransomware attack can take advantage of this flaw.
• If you want to avoid ransomware attacks, you will always have to keep yourself updated. If you are not updated, you will not be able to recognize phishing emails and other online threats.
• Use antivirus programs, firewalls, and other security tools to protect your network and devices. Keep taking regular backup of your important data. Store these backup files offline or in a place where ransomware cannot access these files.
• Ransomware attackers access your important files and lock them and demand a huge amount in exchange for unlocking the files. But there are some cyber security companies that also offer decryption tools with the help of which you can get your files unlocked by paying less money to the company instead of paying the attacker.
• Law enforcement agencies have the resources and experience to deal with ransomware. In such a situation, as soon as a ransomware attack occurs, immediately report the incident so that the attackers can be caught.