Ransomware – Think Twice Before You Open That Attachment.

Ransomware… what is it?

Ransomware is a form of malicious software (malware) that infects your device and makes it impossible to use. Criminals will target you via email, pop-up ads, and social media to install ransomware on your computer. When installed, it will lock your device and with some ransoms have the ability to completely erase files from the machine.

But how does it work?

Ransomware works by sneaking its way onto your device and locking up or encrypting your files. In some cases, ransomware can even stop your device from working at all!

Ransomware can act very similar to other malware or viruses and can be found in similar places. Some examples of things to watch for:

• Browsing unsafe or suspicious websites.
• Opening unknown emails and attachments.
• Clicking on malicious or potentially suspicious links in email or on social media.

Some signs you may be a victim:

• Pop-up messages requesting payments to unlock files.
• No access to your devices, or login doesn’t work for unknown reasons.
• Files request a password or a code when attempting to access.
• Files have been shuffled around or are not in their usual folders or locations.
• Files have unusual file extensions, or their names or icons have changed to something strange.

If you can see any of these changes, it helps to check with your friends and colleagues first!

Advice from the ACSC

ACSC recommendation is that you do not pay the ransom. There is no guarantee paying the ransom will unlock/retrieve your files. As well as making you vulnerable to future attacks. Instead, restore your files from backup and seek advice. To ensure your protection, it is vital to back up your data and put effective cyber security practices in place.