This is how ransomware can get you..or not. A hacker made $1M in a single day swindling people like you and me with ransomware. The basics of ransomware are fitting to its name. A hidden software application made to allow a hacker to overtake your digital device putting them in control. Once, you accidentally download it from email usually attached as a document, it lets them lock you out of your own digital existence until you pay ransom for it to be unlocked. Cyber extortionists just took $17K from a L.A. hospital after freezing out workers from hospital computers.. and we could be the next target.
How Ransomware gets to you:
- usually spread via email doc attachment that convinces you to open saying something like “final notice – late invoice” for example
- avg ransom paid $300
- contaminated apps
How to make it harder for ransomware to get you:
- don’t click links in email
- don’t take documents from strangers
- don’t say yes to enabling macros when asked
- backup regularly on your own drive (popular external drives like these are inexpensive and sure bets
- keep current with software updates
Momma always said don’t take candy from strangers. The same holds true with this growing ransomware threat.
Protect yourself against ransomware by using these tools.