Watch out for ransomware!
Published: 10/03/2022
Don't fall for ransomware and risk losing your coursework, photos and other important files.
What is ransomware?
Ransomware is a type of malicious software that spreads and prevents you from accessing your systems or the data held on them. Typically, the data is made inaccessible, but it may also be deleted or stolen, or systems are locked until the victim pays a ransom for the return of their data and access to files.
Ransomware attacks can have a devastating impact on both organisations and individuals, with victims requiring a significant amount of recovery time to recover data and reinstate critical services. In recent incidents affecting the education sector, ransomware has led to the loss of student coursework, financial records and data relating to important research.
How does a computer become infected with Ransomware?
Ransomware is often spread through phishing emails that contain malicious attachments or through ‘drive-by’ downloading. Drive-by downloading occurs when a user unknowingly visits an infected website and then malware is downloaded and installed without the user’s knowledge.
How do I prevent a ransomware infection?
- Never click on unsafe links - avoid clicking on links in spam messages or on unknown websites.
- Do not open suspicious email attachments as ransomware can also find its way to your device through email attachments.
- Never use unknown USB sticks. Do not connect USB sticks or other storage media to your computer if you do not know where they came from.
- Keep your programs and operating system up to date. Regularly updating programs and operating systems helps to protect you from the latest malware.
- Use only known download sources. To minimize the risk, never download software or media files from unknown sites.
- Avoid disclosing personal information. If you receive a call, text message, or email from an untrusted source requesting personal information, do not reply!
- Use VPN services on public Wi-Fi networks.
- Back-up all your important files.
Watch our video to find out more: