Ransomware is a variant of malware (i.e. hostile or intrusive software) that has recently been on the rise. It has the capability to prevent you from accessing your own files. There have been several recent reports in the news of ransomware affecting hospitals and other organizations. Continue reading for more information on what ransomware is and how you can protect yourself.
What is Ransomware?
Cryptoransomware, or more simply ransomware, is a type of computer malware that has been found on Windows, Mac, and Linux computers. It targets common document file types (Word docs, Excel workbooks, PDFs, etc.) that are stored on local hard drives, network folders, and external hard drives. Once the malware has located these files it encrypts (locks) them, which means the files and the data they hold will be inaccessible until the files are decrypted. The malware will encrypt every file it can find, then display an alarming message demanding that you pay a fee (hundreds or even thousands of dollars) to have your files decrypted (unlocked). If users have no backups of their files, they are faced with permanent loss of access to the files, or payment of the fee. Paying the fee is not recommended since there is no guarantee your files will be decrypted after payment.
How Does Ransomware Get On a Computer?
The two most common methods of infection are malicious email attachments, and email links to malicious websites. Hackers will often use eye-catching email subject lines and messages to trick you into believing you are about to lose access to an important account, or that you are late making a payment, for example. The messages may include attachments or links that when clicked on will install malware on your computer.
What can I Do to Protect Myself?
Protect Your Computer from Malware
Backup Your Files
The most important thing you can do to protect yourself from ransomware is to back up your data. Neither DIIS nor any third party computer company or tools can decrypt locked files. If your files become locked, it is very likely that your only reasonable recourse will be to restore your files from back up. There are several tools available to the Ithaca College community to help you back up your files:
Kyle Szuta
Information Security Engineer
infosec@ithaca.edu
https://www.ithaca.edu/intercom/article.php/20160727094511625