LAST UPDATED: NOV 03, 2020
Ransomware is a type of malware that prevents or limits users from accessing their system. This type of malware forces its victims to pay the ransom through certain online payment methods in order to restore access to their systems, or to get their data back.
Ransomware can be downloaded by unwitting users who visit malicious or compromised websites. It can also arrive as a payload, either dropped or downloaded by other malware. Some ransomware are delivered as attachments to spammed email.
Once executed in the system, a ransomware can either:
- Lock the screen - A Ransomware shows a full-screen image or notification, which prevents victims from using their computer. This screen also provides instructions on how users can pay the ransom.
- Encrypt predetermined files with a password - This Ransomware encrypts files including word processing documents, spreadsheets, photos and other important files.
The cybercriminals behind ransomware make use of online payment methods such as Ukash, PaySafeCard, MoneyPAK or Bitcoin as a way for users to pay the ransom. However, paying the ransom doesn't guarantee the cybercriminal will restore your system or files to you.
Get the latest news and information on ransomware from our Security Intelligence blog here.
Watch our video on Ransomware here.
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How do I prevent Ransomware infection?
To avoid being infected by ransomware, take note of the following:
- Always check who the email sender is
If the email is supposedly coming from a bank, verify with your bank if the message is legitimate. If the email came from a personal contact, confirm if your contact sent the message. Do not rely solely on trust by virtue of relationship, as your friend or family member may be a victim of spammers as well.
- Double-check the content of the message
There are obvious factual errors or discrepancies that you can spot. Example, if your bank or a friend claims that they have received something from you, try to go to your recently sent items to double-check their claim. Such spammed messages can also use other social engineering lures to persuade users to open the message.
- Refrain from clicking links in email
In general, clicking on links in email should be avoided. It is safer to visit any site mentioned in email directly. If you have to click on a link in email, make sure your browser uses web reputation to check the link, or use free services such as Trend Micro Site Safety Center.
- Always ensure your software is up-to-date
There are known ransomware that exploits vulnerabilities to spread. Regularly updating installed software provides another layer of security against many attacks.
- Backup important data.
How can Trend Micro Security protect me from Ransomware?
Trend Micro™ Security offers protection against ransomware by blocking threats from possible points of infection. It prevents access to dangerous websites, including harmful links from social networks, spam and email messages. Most importantly, it detects and deletes ransomware variants if found in the system.
For mobile devices, Trend Micro Mobile Security has App Scan (Android) and Website Filtering features to provide protection againts ransomware.
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