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What is Ransomware?
Computer viruses have been around since before
the Internet, even before personal computers
were available. In 1990 the term
malware
(or
malicious software) was coined, to describe “
any
software used to disrupt computer operations,
gather sensitive information, gain access to
private computer systems, or display unwanted
advertising.
”
As hardware and software have evolved, so has
malware.
Viruses and other forms of malware had primarily
been disruptive, annoying and sometimes
destructive. Roughly 10 years ago, we saw the rise
of another form of malware surface, ransomware.
Luring people to activate this type of malware on a
computer has become a revenue generator.
The most common method is to encrypt a
computer’s files, rendering them unusable. In
order to decrypt the files, the victim must use a
decryption key, and unfortunately, only the malware
operator has this pricey solution.
Ransomware typically targets a user’s documents,
spreadsheets, photographs, videos, and music
without affecting the operation of the computer.
Generally the user is given a deadline, to heighten
the urgency, after which their files will be
unrecoverable.
How did I get attacked?
Ransomware is commonly delivered through email
messages that include a link to a website or a file
Ransomware is a type of malware (malicious
software) that infects a user’s computer in a
way that essentially holds the victim’s files
hostage until a ransom is paid.
attachment. When the user clicks on either the
link or attachment, malware is inadvertently
downloaded. A less common delivery method for
ransomware is referred to as a “drive-by infection.”
This method can infect your computer by simply
visiting a website that contains malicious code or
nefarious advertisement.
Once installed, the malware goes to work
encrypting every file on the user’s computer, every
attached device, and potentially on other network
connected devices.
Prepare For
RANSOMWARE
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