The Spookiness of Ransomware
Around this time of year, we expect to be scared by vampires, haunted hay rides, and getting candy corn while trick or treating. However, one of the scariest things in terms of cybersecurity is ransomware, and it happens year-round. In this article, we'll discuss what ransomware is, what makes it so scary, and how you can protect yourself from it, Spooky Season or not.
What is ransomware and why it can be so scary
Ransomware is a type of malware used by attackers to hold files or devices for ransom. They typically gain access through phishing emails that look like they're from legitimate sources but are actually sent by the attacker. Ransomware can also be used to lock screens, preventing users from accessing their data. To unlock the device or release the data, attackers usually demand a ransom payment.
Ransomware attacks can be extremely scary for businesses and individuals alike. Businesses may find themselves unable to carry out usual processes, and sometimes incur financial damages as a result of ransomware. For individuals, ransomware could mean being locked out of personal files or pictures, and in some extreme instances, ransom payers have been threatened with having their private information made public unless they give into the attacker's payment demands.
How to protect yourself from ransomware
There are a few key things to remember when trying to protect yourself from ransomware:
Much like garlic and sunlight keep vampires at bay, your computer should have the most up-to-date cybersecurity software installed. This will aid in the protection of your data against ransomware and other malware threats.
Be extremely cautious about what links you click on, and never open attachments from unknown senders in emails. These are typical tactics employed by ransomware attackers to spread their malware.
It's always good to be prepared for a worst-case scenario. Keep a backup of your critical data so that if you are attacked by ransomware, you may still recover your information.
If you follow these simple steps, you can help to protect yourself from becoming a quick and easy target for ransomware attacks.
The different types of ransomware out there
Ransomware can come in a few forms like a malevolent shapeshifter. Here are three main types of ransomware:
1. Scareware
Scareware is a type of ransomware that doesn't actually do anything to the user's files or device. Instead, it tries to scare the user into paying a ransom by displaying fake messages that claim their data has been compromised or that their device has been infected with a virus.
2. Lock ransomware
Lock ransomware is the most basic form of ransomware; it simply locks the user out of their device or system. This can be both incredibly frustrating and scary since you have no access to important information and have no idea about what is being done with it while you are locked out.
3. File-encrypting ransomware
The most dangerous type of ransomware is file-encrypting ransomware; it encrypts all user files and makes the device or system inoperable until the ransom is paid.
Attackers could use any of these types of ransomware when attacking victims, or they might combine different types depending on the situation. For example, an attacker could first use lock ransomware to prevent victim access to their device or system, then follow with encrypt ransomware to target their files. This would make the victim's device or system unusable until a ransom was received.
Examples of ransomware attacks
Ransomware attacks are spooky, insidious, and on the rise. They are also a serious cybersecurity threat. In ransomware attacks, cybercriminals encrypt a victim's data and hold it ransom, usually demanding payment in order to release the encryption key and restore access to the data.
One of the most high-profile ransomware attacks was the WannaCry attack in May 2017. This attack infected hundreds of thousands of computers in over 150 countries. Victims were locked out of their data and had to pay a ransom to regain access. The WannaCry attack was particularly scary because it used ransomware that exploited a vulnerability in Windows that had been leaked by NSA hackers.
Another notable ransomware attack was the 2021 attack on Acer. The REvil hacker group, which was also responsible for the attack against London's foreign exchange firm Travelex, attacked Acer in May 2021. The $50 million ransom was by far the largest known to date. The hackers took advantage of a Microsoft Exchange server vulnerability to get access to Acer’s files which included images of sensitive financial documents and spreadsheets that were then leaked.
How to recover from a ransomware attack
A ransomware attack can be a frightening experience, but with the right steps, you can recover from it. If your computer has been infected with ransomware, take the following steps:
1. Disconnect your computer from the internet. This will help prevent the ransomware from spreading to other computers on your network.
2. Power off your computer and disconnect it from all external devices, such as printers and USB drives.
3. Contact your IT department or a cybersecurity expert for help. They may be able to help you recover your files or restore your computer to its previous state.
4. If you are unable to recover your files or restore your computer, back up your data regularly and keep it in a safe place. This will help ensure that you don't lose any important data in the event of another ransomware attack.
Ransomware is spooky. It's one of the scariest cyber threats out there, and it can be very frightening to think about what could happen if your computer got infected. But don't panic! There are things you can do to protect yourself from ransomware. Following these tips and making sure your cybersecurity is as strong as possible are great ways to avoid this nasty threat. If you ever do experience a ransomware attack, don't hesitate to reach out to Ozark Technology for help. We're here to support you every step of the way.
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