[BreachExchange] No fear of ransomware when you know these 5 security tips

[Audrey McNeil]

https://www.engadget.com/2017/01/10/no-fear-of-ransomware-
when-you-know-these-5-security-tips/

Ransomware is raising a ruckus today, claiming computers and data big time.
If you go by the ransomware statistics, 54% companies in the UK have been
attacked by ransomware and the number is 47% of the US companies. The most
alarming bit is that criminals are into developing around 50 new versions
every month and they have not left any of the platforms untouched- be it
Android or Linux or Mac. And, yes, the average ransom demand also shows a
lofty leap from the past year. What was $294 in 2015, has doubled up to a
staggering $679 this year!

What is ransomware?

In simple words, ransomware can be defined as a form of malware that sneaks
into a computer, encrypts files and keeps them on hostage till the user
agrees to pay a sizeable ransom. It will enter a device as Trojan in the
camouflage of a simple normal file which is downloaded unmindfully by a
user. As you download it, the malware will start to encrypt your files and
then send a message notifying that your files won't be decoded unless you
pay the ransom. If you fail to pay your ransom, it may result in heightened
ransom amount or complete removal of encrypted files.

But then, you still have a gateway here. The 5 tips mentioned below will
show you how to beat ransomware attack on your computer and PC.

Get data backup

Your digital data is the lifeblood of your business and the ransomware
baddies know about your vulnerability. No wonder, they unmindfully put
massive ransom on your kidnapped data, knowing that you would be ready to
go to any means to get back your data treasure. This is why, it's advised
to go for a solid data backup routine so that you are no more compelled to
give up to those evil folks. The smartest thing would be to count on cloud
backup as data on cloud is protected from any disaster and mishap- assuring
fast data recovery. Moreover, with cloud backup, you can access the data
anytime and from anywhere.

Antivirus and firewall

This is another important tip when it comes to avoiding ransomware attacks.
Remember, the more protected your PC is, better are you're your chances of
eliminating data kidnapping risks. So, please get anti-virus and firewall
protection for your computer. Add as many security layers as possible. Make
sure to invest in highly reputed anti-virus solutions.

Keep your security updated

Just installing anti-virus won't be enough. You have to make sure to update
it over time as the ransomware criminals are always on the lookout of bugs
in security solutions. Once they find any loophole, they would sneak their
way into your computer. So, don't forget updating the security solutions on
time as updated solutions often come up with previous bugs fixed.

Ad blocker would be handy

Ransomware peeps into your computer mostly through apparently innocuous ads
which you click on without any such apprehension. This is why, it would be
better to install ad blocker in your computer so that all malicious ads get
blocked before they can reach up to you.

Don't click on suspicious emails

Most of the ransomware attacks are the reason of unmindful clicks on spam
email. So, please, do not click on any email that looks suspicious. Also,
do not pay attention to emails from unknown senders. If you get any
suspicious or email from unknown sender, simply delete it the moment you
see it.

It's true that data kidnappers are a smart bunch but show them you are even
smarter with these 5 tips.
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