Ransomware is one of the many threats at large on the internet today. Victims of ransomware range from solopreneurs to regular individuals, ransomware has happened to me personally on two occasions. Don’t think you are safe.

Ransomware started to gain traction over the past few years when software came out that was capable of using encryption to hold data for ransom. Where the term ransomware stems from is that those who use this software ask the victim for money in exchange of releasing their files back to them. This can be photos, accounting, documents, databases… anything!

Overall ransomware has been lucrative for the bad guys as they target hospitals, public schools, government departments and individuals personal computers. That being said there are certain ways that we can protect ourselves from this brutal issue.

My first tip is to never pay the ransom. This funds attackers and obviously encourages them to continue doing the attack. Not only that but who’s to say you’ll get access to those files after you paid them off? I know some will disagree with this point.

Secondly is to back up regularly!  THIS IS KEY because you can always go back and restore those files. Restoring your files from a reliable backup is the fastest way to regain access to anything lost. But make sure you have multiple backups and some of them are offline or archives. Ransomware has hit many companies and encrypted their live backups as well.

Third tip is to avoid any personal information being shared when you email, call, text, or instant message people. Unless you know them personally, the data provided could be used by phishers. These phishers can trick people into installing malware by posing as family, friends or coworkers. As such, make sure you double check if you ever get these unusual communications.

Have a quality antivirus software that helps protect against ransomware is the fourth tip. These are at the forefront of cybersecurity so make sure it’s up to date and that the software is from a reputable company.

Fifth tip is to double check your emails. Scan them and filter your inbox. Any threats or suspicious attachment types should be checked and blocked. And don’t click on those unknown links.

My final tip is when you are travelling, make sure to tell your coworkers or even IT staff. This is especially important if you plan to use public WiFi. This is a precautionary measure in case your phone or computer gets compromised and people at work get strange messages from you. This measure ensures people can be suspicious of it. I highly recommend using a VPN as mentioned in a prior episode to protect yourself over public WiFi, even at home.

Ransomware is real and I’ve personally seen it affect dozens of companies and individuals. Consider my tips to better handle this threat.