There was a large increase in ransomware in 2016. Ransomware is malicious software (malware) that is placed on a computer or other device and blocks access to and use of the device. The malware asks the recipient to take action (usually pay a sum of money- a “ransom”) before access to the device will be returned. There is no guarantee that paying the ransom will result in access being returned.
There are generally two forms of ransomware- lockscreen and encryption. Lockscreen ransomware shows a full screen message that prevents use of the device. Encryption ransomware changes files so they can’t be opened.
The FBI provides the following tips for protecting your device ransomware:
- Make sure you have updated antivirus software on your computer.
- Enable automated patches for your operating system and web browser.
- Have strong passwords, and don’t use the same passwords for everything.
- Use a pop-up blocker.
- Only download software—especially free software—from sites you know and trust (malware can also come in downloadable games, file-sharing programs, and customized toolbars).
- Don’t open attachments in unsolicited e-mails, even if they come from people in your contact list, and never click on a URL contained in an unsolicited e-mail, even if you think it looks safe. Instead, close out the e-mail and go to the organization’s website directly.
- Use the same precautions on your mobile phone as you would on your computer when using the Internet.
- To prevent the loss of essential files due to a ransomware infection, it’s recommended that individuals and businesses always conduct regular system back-ups and store the backed-up data offline.
