What exactly is ransomware? If ransomware or an encryption Trojan gets onto your computer, it encrypts your data or locks your operating system. As ransomware gets hold of a “digital hostage,” such as a file, it demands a ransom for its release. To reduce the likelihood of finding yourself in front of a locked laptop or encrypted file, it’s essential to be prepared. The chances of infection can be significantly reduced by security software and paying sufficient attention. By using anti-ransomware, you can avoid a situation in which you have to pay horrendous sums for the possible release of your data. Ransomware infections can occur in various ways, such as through insecure and fraudulent websites, software downloads, and spam mail. Ransomware targets individuals as well as companies of all sizes.
Security vulnerabilities – are you a potential target of a ransomware attack?
Several factors might make you the target of a ransomware attack.
- The device used is no longer state-of-the-art
- The device has outdated software
- Browsers and/or operating systems are no longer patched
- No proper backup plan exists
- Insufficient attention has been paid to cybersecurity, and a concrete plan is not in place.
If one or more of these points apply to the device, you risk falling victim to a ransomware attack. A vulnerability scan can be performed in many ways. Still, overall the software scans the device for possible security vulnerabilities in the operating system or the programs installed on the computer. By detecting these vulnerabilities, which enable malware to infiltrate, it is possible to prevent the computer from becoming infected.
Protection against ransomware – how to prevent an infection
- Never click on unsafe links: Avoid clicking on links in spam messages or on unknown websites. If you click on malicious links, an automatic download could be started, leading to your computer being infected.
- Avoid disclosing personal information: If you receive a call, text message, or email from an untrusted source requesting personal information, do not reply. Cybercriminals planning a ransomware attack might try to collect personal information in advance, which is then used to tailor phishing messages specifically to you. If in any doubt as to whether the message is legitimate, contact the sender directly.
- Do not open suspicious email attachments: Ransomware can also find its way to your device through email attachments. Avoid opening any dubious-looking attachments. Pay close attention to the sender to ensure the email is trustworthy, and check that the address is correct. Never open attachments that prompt you to run macros to view them. If the attachment is infected, opening it will run a malicious macro that gives malware control of your computer.
- Never use unknown USB sticks: Never connect USB sticks or other storage media to your computer if you do not know where they originated. Cybercriminals may have infected the storage medium and placed it in a public place to entice somebody into using it.
- Keep your programs and operating system up to date: Regularly updating programs and operating systems helps to protect you from malware. When performing updates, make sure you benefit from the latest security patches. This makes it harder for cybercriminals to exploit vulnerabilities in your programs.
- Use only known download sources: Never download software or media files from unknown sites to minimize the risk of downloading ransomware. Rely on verified and trustworthy sites for downloads. Trust seals can recognize websites of this kind. Ensure that the browser address bar of the page you visit uses “HTRTS” instead of “HTTP”. A shield or lock symbol in the address bar can indicate the page is secure. Also, exercise caution when downloading anything to your mobile device. Depending on your device, you can trust the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Use VPN services on public Wi-Fi networks: Conscientious use of public Wi-Fi networks is a sensible protective measure against ransomware. Your computer is more vulnerable to attacks when using a public Wi-Fi network. Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions or a secure VPN service to stay protected.
Anti-ransomware software – what are the benefits?
In addition to these infection-prevention measures, appropriate software is essential to protect against ransomware. For example, using virus scanners and content filters on your mail servers is a smart way to prevent ransomware. These programs reduce the risk of spam with malicious attachments or infected links reaching your mailbox.
Internet security software can block infected files when you download or stream something, thus providing real-time protection. This prevents ransomware from infecting your computer and keeps cybercriminals at bay. Kaspersky also offers a unique anti-ransomware tool that can provide additional help. The tool helps detect and block ransomware by performing scans and protecting your data from local and remote-access attacks.
If you have installed the right software, you have already taken a big step in the right direction. Regularly update your internet security solution to take advantage of its latest protection. Each update contains the latest security patches and improves protection against ransomware.
Data protection – neutralize the threat of the worst-case scenario
What to look out for when creating backups
Ensure your data is always protected by backups if your computer becomes infected with ransomware, and decryption is impossible. Use an external hard drive, and disconnect it from your computer after creating the backup. If your hard drive is connected when the ransomware becomes active, the data on the drive will also be encrypted. You should back up your data in this way at regular intervals.
Backup software – protection or threat?
If you do not want to protect your data manually, you can use what is known as backup software. But here, you also need to exercise caution. That’s because some “security tools” can also be Trojans. Creating backup copies is a primary task of backup software, which means it has access to all files and numerous privileges.
The software usually has a direct connection to the provider, so it is easy for cybercriminals to incorporate additional functions and commands. These can be harmful and may not be recognized by the user. To avoid such a situation, you should be careful when searching for suitable backup software.
Protection against ransomware – what companies should pay attention to
Ransomware attacks are by no means only a threat to individuals. Companies are also frequently targeted. Large, lucrative companies fall victim to ransomware, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are targeted too. They usually have poor security systems and are desirable targets for attackers. Below is a list of factors that should be taken into account by companies wanting to avoid ransomware infection.
- Stay up-to-date with the latest operating software at all times – in the corporate environment too. Experience shows (for example, WannaCry 2017) that companies that neglect this area are particularly vulnerable to ransomware attacks.
- Raise employee awareness – someone who knows what to look for will be more effective at countering attacks. Implement a security protocol that enables employees to assess whether an attachment, link or email is trustworthy.
- Be prepared – make sure there is a plan in case of ransomware infection.
- Consider cloud technologies if you haven’t done so already. The advantage over on-premise systems is that vulnerabilities in cloud-based architectures are more difficult to exploit. In addition, cloud storage solutions allow you to restore older versions of your files. If the files are encrypted by ransomware, you can return to an unencrypted version using cloud storage.
- Backups – even in business environments, it is crucial always to back up business-critical data to external devices. Responsibility for this essential task should be clearly stated and communicated.
Ransomware today – the development of malware
While the basic concept of ransomware attacks – data encryption and ransom extortion – remains the same, cybercriminals regularly change how they operate.
- From PayPal to Bitcoin – because it is more difficult to track, ransom demands by cybercriminals are now made in Bitcoin. In the past, PayPal was mainly used for this purpose.
- Distribution – initially, spam emails were considered the main point of attack. While these have not lost their relevance today, VPN vulnerabilities and distribution over botnets are also common.
Just as cyber criminals drive ransomware development, anti-ransomware protection is evolving to become more effective and efficient.
Conclusion
As with other forms of malware, careful action and excellent security software are a step in the right direction when combatting ransomware. Of particular importance concerning this type of malware is the creation of backups, as this allows you to be well-prepared even in a worst-case scenario.
