Three Ways To Avoid Ransomware

Ransomware, creates a lot of losses for computer users. (photo: doc. Antara)

JAKARTA – Ransomware, is malware that attacks hardware to obtain user information such as documents. The virus then encrypts everything it finds and locks the file.

The hacker demands the victim to pay to get the files back. If the victim pays the ransom, in some cases, the hacker takes the money and then disappears.

There are also hackers who send a description key with a set of instructions. What's worse, hackers can't recover data, so files are permanently damaged.

Ransomware can enter your device in various ways, such as plugging in a flash drive, downloading files from unknown sites, attachments in emails, and links to malicious sites.

If attacked by malware, Kaspersky advises not to pay the ransom because the money will be used to develop new malware. Paying also does not guarantee data back.

Users can use the services of Crypto Sheriff on the No More Ransom website to find out what malware is infecting the device. The site sometimes also provides a decryptor for various types of ransomware.

If you haven't found a decryptor, keep checking regularly because the tool is always updated.

To be protected from ransomware, users can perform the following steps.

1. Data Backup

Always back up important files to cloud storage or an external hard disk. For photo files, backup data every week or once a month.

While important files, it could be every few days or even every day. Kaspersky recommends not delaying making backups or back-ups of important files because ransomware can happen at any time.

Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication for cloud storage. Only connect the hard drive to the device when needed. If attacked by ransomware, every drive connected to the computer will be encrypted.

2. Incoming Message Alert

If you receive an e-mail, make sure you know who sent it. If you receive suspicious files from known people, contact them by other means such as telephone as it could be that their email account has been compromised.

If the email is from someone you don't know, ignore the message. Email attachments and links to websites are the most common disguises for ransomware Trojans.

3. Avoid Suspicious Sites

Cybercriminals often use various tricks to manipulate victims into downloading ransomware, for example when they click on a banner on a website, prompting them to download something.

4. Update Software

Criminals exploit vulnerabilities in software. Therefore, always update the software on time to reduce cybersecurity risks.

If you can, enable automatic updates for the software.

5. Install Security Solution

The latest security solutions can identify and block malware in real-time.